China's Trade Surplus Expands Despite Slower Export Growth

July exports rose 7%, below forecasts, while imports surged 7.2%, reflecting mixed economic signals.

China's total foreign trade in goods reached $3.5 trillion from January to July.
July's export growth of 7% was the slowest in three months, missing the expected 9.7%.
Imports in July outperformed expectations, growing 7.2% year-over-year.
The trade surplus for the first seven months of 2024 increased by 7.9% to $518 billion.
Economic challenges persist with sluggish consumer demand and a real-estate slump.