world-economy

China Manufacturing Growth Trails Expectations Despite Export Recovery

China's factory activity expanded at a slower pace than anticipated in June, even as export shipments to the United States rebounded from earlier weakness. Official measurements showed improvement, attributed primarily to stronger outbound cargo flows. The divergence between manufacturing indices underscores uneven recovery across China's industrial sector. Container spot rates from Chinese ports to U.S. West Coast terminals surged over 300% between March and June, reflecting tightening capacity in international ocean services. The Fourth China International Supply Chain Expo drew 676 exhibitors from 85 countries in late June, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen global trade connections. Industry analysts point to the U.S. rebound as a key driver offsetting domestic softness in China's economy through the second quarter.