China’s economy slowed slightly in the last quarter as US President Donald Trump’s trade war intensified, but still managed to expand at a solid 5.2% pace, the government said on Tuesday.On a quarterly basis, the world’s second-largest economy grew by 1.1%, slightly above the 0.9% rise forecast, according to National Bureau of Statistics data cited by Reuters.This pace marked a slight dip from the 5.4% annual growth recorded between January and March. The Chinese economy posted a 5.3% annual growth rate, in the first half of the year overall.A major boost came from robust export growth. On Monday, China said its exports rose 5.8% in June compared to the same month last year, up from May’s 4.8% increase.A temporary reprieve from the steep US tariffs on Chinese goods triggered a wave of orders from businesses and consumers, as trade talks between the two countries resumed. Chinese companies also stepped up exports through offshore manufacturing and trade with other countries, helping cushion the blow of the Trump administration’s tariff hikes.“Generally speaking, with the more proactive and effective macro policies taking effect … the national economy maintained steady growth with good momentum, showcasing strong resilience and vitality,” the National Bureau of Statistics said in its report.Still, a 0.1% drop in consumer prices in the first half of 2025 signalled persistent weakness in domestic demand, a longstanding concern for the ruling communist Party.
