China’s surging trade stats show a global economy in rude health
Beijing — China’s exports and imports unexpectedly accelerated last month, in an encouraging sign for the world’s second-biggest economy. Nonetheless, analysts expect growth to continue cooling amid a government crackdown on financial risks and polluting factories. As global demand has surprised with its strength, consumers have lapped up Chinese goods at a rapid rate this year, giving the economy a boost and providing policy makers room to tighten rules to curb high-risk lending. Exports in November rose 12.3% year on year, the fastest pace in eight months, led by strong sales of electronics and hi-tech goods, while commodity purchases helped lift imports. The number beat analysts’ forecast of a 5% increase and compared with 6.9% growth in October. Imports grew 17.7% year on year in November, the General Administration of Customs said on Friday, also well above expectations of 11.3% growth and rising at the fastest pace since September. The numbers may help to ease concerns of slow...
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