China's exports rise 10.7% in December as factories rush to meet orders before U.S. tariffs

China's exports rose 10.7% in December, surpassing expectations of 7%. This increase comes as factories rush to fulfill orders before potential U.S. tariffs under President-elect Donald Trump. Imports grew by 1%, contrary to predictions of a decline. China's trade surplus expanded to $104.84 billion, with total trade reaching a record 43.85 trillion yuan (nearly $6 trillion). The growth in exports is driven by high-tech products, including a 45% increase in industrial robots and a 13% rise in electric vehicle exports. Chinese officials noted that while imports increased, they still lag behind exports. They aim to boost imports despite trade restrictions from the U.S. and others. Trade with countries in China's "Belt and Road" initiative accounted for about half of total trade last year.