Exports up, imports down in February as analysts warn of data distortions

China’s exports grew 48.3% in February year-on-year reversing a January decline of 3.3%, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing data from the General Administration of Customs. However, imports slid 20.5% for the same period, the fourth consecutive month of lower year-over-year imports, partly due to the sharp fall in prices for key commodities such as oil and metals. Analysts also cautioned that the February trade figures were distorted by numerous factors including the timing of the Lunisolar New Year and a crackdown this time last year on export fraud.