China's July trade growth eases as high-tech demand stays strong

Data from Chinese customs indicate that July's export pace decelerated compared with June, narrowing the trade surplus to $112.5 billion from $125.6 billion. Export values were still 24% higher than a year earlier, though the increase fell short of June's 27% gain, and imports rose 27.5% year-on-year after a 36% surge in the prior month. The dip was partly attributed to typhoon-induced disruptions at ports, according to analysts.

Despite the slowdown, demand for high-tech electronics, vehicles and green-technology components stayed vigorous, with high-tech shipments up nearly 41% for January-July versus the previous year. Vehicle exports jumped 55% and overall electronics and machinery sales rose 26% in the same period. Trade with the United States grew modestly, while exports to the European Union and Southeast Asia increased by about 17% and 25% respectively.