China Faces Cold Economic Winter: A Balancing Act Between Exports and Domestic Demand

China's economy grew by 5.0% last year by capturing a significant share of global demand, yet it faces challenges with weak domestic consumption and over-reliance on exports. Domestic sectors continue to weaken, and without policy shifts towards household spending, analysts predict slower growth in the near future.

China's economy posted a 5.0% growth in the last year, achieving its governmental target by dominating global market demand, though domestic consumption remains weak. This growth strategy, marginalizing the impact of U.S. tariffs, is now reaching unsustainable levels.

Post-2021 property sector crash, Beijing's resource allocation tilted towards industrial production to hit ambitious targets, resulting in overcapacity and necessitating export market expansion. Last year, China hit a record trade surplus of $1.2 trillion, likened to top global economies.

Despite a dip in U.S. shipments, exports thrived elsewhere, offering buffer against protectionist U.S. trade policies. Yet, domestic economy stagnates with industrial growth outpacing retail and property investments dropping persistently, urging China to refocus on consumer-driven growth to sustain future economic vigor.

(With inputs from agencies.)