China posts a surprise trade deficit as exports slow

Cyclist passes containers at Longtan port in Nanjing

China has been working towards reducing its trade deficit after criticism of its policies.

China has reported a surprise trade deficit in February after exports slowed down.

Shipments grew at a weaker-than-expected 2.4% in February from the same month a year ago, latest figures show.
Imports on the other hand increased by 19.4%, resulting in a trade deficit of $7.3bn (£4.5bn).
The news comes at a time when China has been facing criticism over its export-led growth policy.
The US and other developed nations have accused China of keeping the value of its currency, the yuan, artificially low to boost foreign sales.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-12688877

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