China's U.S.-Bound Exports Decline in July, Impacting Economic Growth
China's exports to the United States experienced a decline in July, marking the first drop in several months, according to a survey by the U.S.-based research firm China Beige Book. The survey, conducted between July 20 and 28, involved 1,436 Chinese businesses. This decline follows a 14% increase in U.S.-bound shipments in June, which had contributed to a 27% surge in overall exports, the highest in nearly five years. The June increase was attributed to businesses frontloading shipments in anticipation of higher U.S. tariffs. The July decline is part of a broader trend of decreasing exports since trade tensions escalated in April 2025. The survey also noted a slowdown in factory activity and a downturn in retail sales, particularly in travel and restaurants.