China meets 2025 GDP goal despite Q4 slowdown

China achieved its five per cent GDP growth target in 2025. The growth was driven by a record US$1.19 trillion export surplus that mitigated the impact of US tariffs. However, the economy slowed in the final quarter, reaching a three-year low of 4.5 per cent. Analysts describe the growth as “lopsided,” fueled by exports while facing headwinds from weak domestic demand, a property downturn and falling investment.