The national statistic bureau released a slew of May economic data on Monday. The verdict? A slight easing in growth momentum. Industrial output grew 6 percent, matching expectations. It grew 5.9 percent in the first five months of this year, slightly better than expected.
In terms of specific industries, the high-tech sector showed strong growth, recording over 11 percent growth in May. And manufacturing also registered over 8 percent growth. However, the energy industry continued to shrink, with the mining sector in particular contracting by over 2 percent.
Fixed asset investment growth eased to 9.6 percent in the first five months, undershooting a forecast of 10.5 percent and recording the lowest rate in 16 years. Retail sales in the month grew 10 percent on the year, less than expected, as analysts had forecast they would rise at the same pace as in April. Online transactions contributed a big part of this, with 27 percent of growth.