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 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.

SINGAPORE—China reported surprisingly robust economic activity to start the year, giving Beijing some wind at its back as it faces the prospect of increased tensions with President Trump’s second administration.

Beijing’s leaders are ordering fiscally strapped local governments to spend more to help workers, consumers and businesses.