Growth was supported by a surge of exports from Chinese manufacturers, as customers and producers alike took advantage of the U.S.-China trade war ceasefire.

Companies redirected exports through other countries to avoid U.S. tariffs, and policymakers turned up investment in manufacturing and infrastructure.

Amid escalating trade tensions with the US, China’s economy recorded a steady 5.2 per cent growth in the second quarter of 2025, buoyed by surging exports. However, a dip in consumer prices revealed ongoing weakness in domestic demand.