China's retail sales growth quickened in January-February in a welcome sign for policymakers' efforts to boost domestic consumption even as joblessness rose and factory output eased, underscoring the strains on an economy facing fresh U.

BEIJING] China’s retail sales growth quickened in January to February in a welcome sign for policymakers’ efforts to boost domestic consumption even as joblessness rose and factory output eased, underscoring the strains on an economy facing fresh US tariff pressure.

Consumption and industrial production in China grew faster to start the year, in an upswing that exceeded forecasts as Donald Trump’s tariffs threaten exporters in the world’s largest trading nation.

China's industrial output slowed in January-February, while retail sales growth accelerated slightly in a mixed start for the economy this year as policymakers navigate mounting pressure from U.S. trade tariffs.

January and February saw a 4 per cent increase in retail sales, stirring hopes domestic consumption can make up for a shortfall in exports.