“The slowdown in import growth will last two to three months or even longer due to both falling demand and possible commodity price drops.”-Li Wei, Standard Chartered Shanghai

While China’s industry activity looks great, compared to other countries, the fact is that it’s slowing down.  The latest import numbers are the lowest ‘increase’ since November 2009.  This means that Chinese industries are buying less materials from other countries.

Imports are at 19.3%, compared to the previous year.  But export numbers are down as well.

China’s June export numbers are 17.9%, compared to May’s 19.4%.  Export numbers to the U.S. and EU dropped to 16.9%.

“The slow recovery of the global economy and the European debt crisis have added uncertainties to export growth.”-Zheng Yuesheng, GAC statistics

While some Chinese industry analysts remain optimistic, some Chinese officials are not so positive: “Exporters in Zhejiang have experienced a disappointing first half, and the second half will not be better.”-Han Jie, Zhejiang Department of Commerce