Growth in China's fixed-asset investment slipped below 10 percent for the first time since 2000 in January-May, as a boost from record credit growth seemed to be already fading, putting expectations of further stimulus back on the table.

The government has taken a more cautious stance on stimulus since commentary in official media last month warned of the risks of growing debt, but analysts said signs of weakness in the latest monthly data may spur policymakers into taking additional steps to support the economy.

The National Bureau of Statistics said on Monday that it expects the second quarter economic growth to be stable, though exports face pressure from global uncertainties. The bureau also said China's authorities are prepared to deal with a possible U.S. Federal Reserve interest rate increase.