In an impressive start to 2025, the Chinese mainland reported a robust 5.4% growth in GDP for the first quarter, reaching 31.875 trillion yuan (approximately $4.337 trillion). This dynamic performance not only surpassed analysts’ forecasts but also demonstrated strong economic foundations across multiple sectors.
Data from the National Bureau of Statistics revealed that growth was driven by a balanced contribution from all sectors. The primary sector grew by 3.5%, the secondary sector by 5.9%, and the tertiary sector by 5.3%. Industrial output provided further momentum, with enterprises above designated size improving by 6.5% year-on-year and March recording a notable 7.7% rise.
Equipment manufacturing and high-tech manufacturing shone brightly with increases of 10.9% and 9.7%, respectively, while modern services — such as information technology and software services — surged by 9.9%. On the agricultural front, crop farming's added value increased by 4.0% year-on-year, complementing a steady recovery in consumer demand and retail activities, which grew by 4.6%.
Trade also played a key role, as exports climbed by 6.9% reaching 6.13 trillion yuan, and the overall import-export value increased by 1.3%. Furthermore, a 6.5% boost in high-tech industry investments and a 5.6% rise in per capita disposable income illustrate a broader trend of high-quality development and strengthened domestic fundamentals.
Supported by strategic macro policies and a continued focus on innovation, the resilient performance reflected in these figures marks a significant milestone for the Chinese mainland. The trends suggest promising potential for driving further technological advancements and sustainable economic growth in an ever-evolving global landscape.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
