NBS: Economic situation gains momentum in Jan-Feb period

China's National Bureau of Statistics is suggesting the overall economic situation in China has improved through the first two months of the year.

Ning Jizhe, chief of the National Bureau of Statistics, receives an interview at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 12, 2019. [Photo: Xinhua]

NBS chief Ning Jizhe says January and February have seen an overall steady expansion in production, consumption and trade, as well as stable price levels and employment.

"In February, the new orders sub-index in the PMI rose to 50.6 from 49.6 in January, indicating that market demand has recovered moderately. February's Consumer confidence index reached 126, up by 2.3 points month on month. The Shanghai Composite Index, which reflects expectations on the financial markets, has grown by about 20 percent so far this year," said Ning.

The head of the NBS also says early indications are pointing to a continued rise economic activity in March.

Figures from the General Administration of Customs shows foreign trade jumped nearly 25-percent year-on-year through the first 8-days of this month.

March exports are up by around 40-percent in the period.

Customs stats show trade in February - with the Spring Festival holiday factored-in - rose just over 10-percent, with exports up close to 8-percent, while imports rose nearly 13-percent.

The National Bureau of Statistics is due to release precise economic results for the first two months on Thursday.