China's Economy Hits $1 Trillion Trade Surplus Amid Investment Slump and Outlook Uncertainty

Last week saw three important events on the economic front in China — the country hitting a $1 trillion trade surplus in 2025, data showing investment falling for the third straight month in November, and an important official meeting on the outlook for the coming year. All of them point to thefamiliar successes, problems and trends that have come to be associated with the Chinese economy. By virtue of its sheer size and deep linkages, any major development impacts the rest of the world, too. Here is a closer look: