China's economy grows 5% in 2025, buoyed by strong exports despite Trump's tariffs
NBCJAN 19
China Hits 5% GDP Growth Target Despite Slowing Economy
Is China's economy dangerously unbalanced and losing steam, or proving its resilience with strong fundamentals?
Above: The flag of China waves in the wind at a container terminal on the Yangtze River, on Aug. 12, 2025. Image credit: Cheng Xin/Getty Images
The Spin
Anti-China narrative
China's economy is losing steam and becoming dangerously unbalanced, with growth slowing to a three-year low while domestic demand remains stubbornly weak. The reliance on exports has hit the highest level since 1997, masking serious structural problems, including a collapsing property sector and declining private investment that threaten long-term stability.
Pro-China narrative
China's economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience by hitting its 5% growth target and surpassing 140 trillion yuan for the first time despite external pressures. High-tech industries and new quality productive forces are driving sustainable development, while record-breaking exports and stabilizing consumption prove the economy remains a global locomotive with strong fundamentals intact.
Metaculus Prediction
The Controversies
Establishment split
CRITICAL
PRO
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.0