China’s exports grow 7.6% in May, beating expectations despite trade tensions

HONG KONG — China’s exports in May exceeded analysts’ expectations despite trade tensions, although imports fell, according to customs data released Friday.

Exports rose 7.6% in May from the same period last year to $302.35 billion. However, imports rose 1.8% to $219.73 billion, missing estimates for growth of around 4%.

In comparison, exports grew 1.5% in April compared to the same period last year, while April imports rose 8.4%.

Strong exports also caused China’s trade surplus to widen to $82.62 billion, up from $72.35 billion in April.