Mainland's April Exports Drop As US Tariffs Bite

The mainland's exports fell in April amid a punishing tariff war with Washington, adding to pressure on Beijing on the eve of negotiations aimed at settling the fight over its technology ambitions.

April exports sank 2.7% from a year ago to US$193.5 billion, a reverse from March's 14.2% growth, customs data showed. That was markedly weaker than private sector forecasts of growth in low single digits.

Imports rose 4% to US$179.6 billion, rebounding from the previous month's 7.6% decline in a new sign government efforts to reverse an economic downturn might be gaining traction.

Exports to the United States are down 9.7% for the first four months of the year following US President Donald Trump's tariff hikes in response to complaints Beijing steals or pressures companies to hand over technology.

In the same four-month period, imports of American goods plunged 30.4% following Chinese retaliatory duties and orders to buyers to find other suppliers.

Both governments have said negotiations are making progress, but Trump expressed frustration on Sunday at what he called their slow pace. US officials accused Beijing of trying to renege on commitments made in earlier talks.

Economists say even if a settlement is reached, China's exports this year will be lackluster due to weak global demand, putting pressure on manufacturers that support millions of jobs. (AP)