China's economy expanded 4.8 per cent year-on-year in the third quarter, in line with market forecasts, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. The figure reflects a continued slowdown from the second quarter's 5.2 per cent growth and brings the nine-month total to 5.2 per cent, reported Caixin.

The third-quarter result matched the average forecast from a Caixin survey of economists and followed a stronger-than-expected first quarter. Analysts had anticipated weaker momentum in the latter half of 2025, citing global trade tensions and domestic challenges.

China's economy grew 5.3 per cent in the first half of the year, but concerns over slowing exports and subdued consumer demand have weighed on expectations. The latest figures suggest policymakers may face pressure to introduce further stimulus measures.

Trade relations between China and the US deteriorated this month after a period of relative calm. US President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 100 per cent tariff on Chinese imports, escalating tensions as Beijing tightened export controls on rare earth minerals critical to sectors such as defence and new energy.

The renewed friction between the world's two largest economies has raised concerns over supply chain disruptions and added uncertainty to China's growth outlook. Economists warn that prolonged trade disputes could further dampen investment and industrial output.