Mainland Exports Jump Above Forecasts

China’s exports surged 32.3 percent over a year ago in April as global consumer demand strengthened, while imports rose 43.1 percent.

Exports rose to US$263.9 billion, in line with the previous month’s growth but down from the explosive 60.6 percent rise in the first two months of 2021, customs data showed Friday.

Imports increased to 43.1 percent, accelerating from March’s 38.1 percent expansion.

Exports to the United States rose 30.8 percent over a year ago to US$42 billion despite a lingering tariff war with Washington, the General Administration of Customs of China reported. Imports of American goods rose 23.5 percent to US$13.9 billion.

China’s global trade surplus narrowed by 5 percent to US$42.8 billion, an indication demand is recovering faster in China than in the rest of the world. Its political volatile surplus with the United States widened by 33.4 percent to US$28.1 billion.

Exporters have benefited from the relatively early reopening of China’s economy and demand for masks and other medical supplies while some governments are re-imposing anti-virus curbs that limit business and trade.

Traders are watching for signs of what President Joe Biden might do about reviving tariff war talks with Beijing. (AP)