China reports record trade surplus as exports surge in December

China's trade surplus reached $104.84 billion in December, driven by a 10.7% increase in exports, surpassing expectations. Exports to the U.S. rose 15.6%, while imports grew only 1%, leading to a significant surplus. The total value of China's trade hit a record 43.85 trillion yuan (nearly $6 trillion), up 5% from last year. Despite a slowing economy, exports of high-tech products and e-commerce trade saw substantial growth. Chinese officials noted that while they do not seek a trade surplus, imports lagged due to lower commodity prices and weak domestic demand. They expressed optimism about future import growth despite potential tariff threats from the U.S.