China's exports find non-U.S. markets

China’s exports to the United States fell 27% in September from the year before, even though growth in its global exports hit a six-month high.

- BY CHAN HO-HIM

CHINA'S global shipments are up even as its U.S. exports have fallen. Above, containers in Shanghai.

(Chinatopix)

Customs figures released Monday showed that China’s worldwide exports, at $328.5 billion, were 8.3% higher than a year earlier, surpassing economists’ estimates. That was markedly better than the 4.4% year-on-year increase in August.

Imports grew 7.4% last month, markedly better than a 1.3% increase by year in August, though a weaker domestic economy and a real estate sector downturn continue to weigh on demand and consumption.

China’s exports to the United States have fallen for six straight months. In August they dropped 33%.