China third-quarter GDP growth weakest in one year
China’s economy expanded 4.8% year-on-year in Q3 2025, down from 5.2% in Q2, marking its slowest pace since Q3 2024.
While in line with market expectations, the GDP growth has lost momentum after a strong start to the year, pressured by U.S. trade tensions, a prolonged property slump, and soft consumer demand.
September data showed retail sales in China rose at their slowest pace in a year despite ongoing consumer subsidy programs, while the jobless rate edged down but remained near August’s six-month high.
Industrial output, however, grew at its fastest pace in three months ahead of Golden Week. On the trade front, exports and imports beat forecasts as firms pushed into new markets and domestic demand was boosted by holiday spending.
China’s statistics bureau cautioned that risks and external headwinds persist, with the recovery’s foundation still fragile.
Still, it said that 5.2% growth in the first nine months lays a “solid foundation” for meeting a full-year target of around 5%.
UCapital Asset Management LLP or group companies may have commercial relationships with the companies mentioned. This content is not financial advice.
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