China

Zhōngguó

中国

January to February

yī zhì èr yuè

1至2月

retail sales

língshòu é

零售额

and / with

yǔ

与

industrial output

gōngyè chǎnzhí

工业产值

both / simultaneously

shuāngshuāng

双双

to exceed / to surpass

chāochū

超出

expectations / forecasts

yùqī

预期

。

New Words

News in English

China Retail Sales and Industrial Output Both Beat Forecasts in January-February 2026

China January-February 2026 data showed retail sales rising 2.8% year-on-year, beating forecasts, while industrial output climbed 6.3%, signaling a solid start to the year.

China National Bureau of Statistics March 16 announced, this year January to February total retail sales consumer goods year-on-year growth 2.8 percent, higher than market expectations, create last year October since fastest growth rate. Analysts point out, Lunar New Year holiday drive consumption noticeably rebound, grains oil food and clothing footwear category goods growth margin especially outstanding, respectively register over 10 percent year-on-year growth. Industrial production aspect, January to February above-designated-size industrial value-added output year-on-year growth 6.3 percent, show manufacturing sector at new year start maintain relatively strong expansionary momentum. Service sector consumption continue recovery warming trend, service retail sales year-on-year growth 5.6 percent, become drive domestic demand important supporting force. Automobile retail sales year-on-year decline 7.3 percent, reflect consumers amid trade friction intensifying backdrop toward major durable goods spending still maintain cautious attitude. Officials indicate, authorities will continue implement expanding domestic demand policy, through boost residents consumption offset pressure from external trade. Economists point out, although opening data better than expected, but achieve full year 4.5 to 5 percent growth target, still greatly extent depend on domestic demand sustained recovery and international trade situation evolution.

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