China’s economy in period of ‘deflation’

China's imports and exports fell more sharply than expected last month as weaker global demand threatened the recovery prospects of the world's second-largest economy.

Official figures show that exports fell by 14.5% in July compared with a year earlier, while imports dropped 12.4%.

The grim trade figures reinforce concerns that the country's economic growth could slow further this year.

It will increase pressure on Beijing to help boost the post-pandemic recovery.