CHINA’S economy has grown at a robust 5.3 per cent, the government said today.

The strong growth in the last quarter came despite US President Donald Trump’s trade war.

A key factor behind the latest upbeat data was strong exports. On Monday, China reported that its exports accelerated in June, rising 5.8 per cent from a year earlier, up from a 4.8 per cent increase in May.

Production of high-tech products, vehicles and electrical machinery and equipment rose by about 10 per cent or more from a year earlier.

A reprieve on painfully high tariffs on Chinese exports to the US prompted a rush of orders by companies and consumers as the two sides resumed trade talks. 

“Generally speaking, with the more proactive and effective macro policies taking effect the national economy maintained steady growth with good momentum, showcasing strong resilience and vitality,” the report by the National Bureau of Statistics said.

Chinese leaders have set a growth target of 5 per cent for this year, in line with last year’s growth. 

A threatened resumption of US tariffs of up to 245 per cent could derail the recovery in exports if Washington and Beijing fail to meet an August 12 deadline for a new trade deal.