China's export growth slows sharply

Official data from China's customs agency has revealed a sharp cooling in the nation's export engine during the first full month of the Middle East conflict.

After a strong start to the year, shipments to major markets including the U.S. and Europe have faltered as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz pushes up material costs and logistical hurdles.

While imports surged by nearly 28%, driven by a rush to secure energy supplies, the narrowing trade surplus is raising concerns about the long-term resilience of the Chinese economy.

Analysts warn that if the war persists, China may be forced to pivot further toward domestic consumption and Central Asian trade routes.