China's trade surplus hits record high as exports surge past forecasts. The world's second-largest economy reported a combined January-February trade surplus of $213.62 billion, far exceeding the $179.6 billion expectation. Exports jumped 21.8% year-over-year, crushing the predicted 7.1% growth rate, while imports also surprised with 19.8% growth against forecasts of 6.3%. Despite U.S. trade tensions reducing bilateral commerce by 16.9%, China strengthened ties with the EU and ASEAN, with trade rising 19.9% and 20.3% respectively. Consumer inflation climbed to 1.3% in February, the strongest rebound since January 2023. Economists suggest the robust export performance combined with Beijing's conservative 4.5% to 5% GDP growth target indicates limited near-term stimulus is expected, signaling confidence in current economic momentum.
