China trade data well below expectations

China's exports rose 4.7% in November from a year ago, compared to market forecasts of a 8.2% jump.
Imports fell 6.7% in the same period against predictions of a 3.9% rise.
The surprise slump in imports led the trade surplus to hit a record $54.5bn (£35bn), the highest in 14 years.
While the trade surplus, which is up 61% compared to last year, will add to economic growth in the fourth quarter, it does suggest the government needs to step in to stimulate growth, said Dariusz Kowalczyk, economist at Credit Agricole.

This post was published at BBC