🔗 Share this article China's Economic Expansion Slows as Commercial Disputes with US Intensify The 4.8% growth in the third quarter represented a slowdown from five point two percent in the previous three-month span The Chinese economic expansion slowed during the quarter ending in September as trade tensions with the United States escalated. The global number two economy grew by 4.8% compared to the same period in 2024, representing its slowest rate in a full year, according to official statistics published on the start of the week. This economic data surfaces following China's enforcement of comprehensive restrictions on its exports of strategic minerals - essential elements for worldwide electronics production, a move that disrupted the delicate trade truce with the United States. The third quarter gross domestic product growth will set the tone for a gathering of China's top leaders this coming days to discuss the country's development plan covering the period between twenty twenty-six and 2030. Key Economic Indicators The 4.8% expansion in the July-September period signified a slowdown from the five point two percent recorded in the three months concluding in mid-year. China's National Bureau of Statistics announced the economy demonstrated "remarkable durability and dynamism" against external pressure, attributing growth in its technology sector and business services as key expansion factors. The Chinese government has established a goal of "approximately five percent" economic growth this calendar year and has so far prevented a sharp downturn, supported by government support measures. International Trade Developments American leader President Trump responded swiftly to China's controls on rare earths by threatening additional 100% tariffs on imports from China. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated he expects to meet Chinese officials this coming days in Southeast Asia in an effort to reduce friction and arrange a meeting between Trump and his Chinese equivalent President Xi. Prior to the recent escalation, China's companies had capitalized of the trade truce with the United States to export products to the US, resulting in China's overseas shipments increasing by 8.4% in last month. Sector Results The total value of imports to China was also higher, while China's industrial output grew by 6.5% last thirty-day period from a previous year. Producers in 3D-printing, robotics and EVs were among its strongest performers, while the services industry, which includes IT support, consultancies, and transport and logistics, also experienced growth. The Asian economy continues to show remarkable resilience despite growing international commercial challenges and domestic economic adjustments.