BNP Paribas economists note Chinese GDP growth at 5.0% year-on-year in Q1 2026, after 5% in 2025, and expects a moderate slowdown in 2026. They highlight a K-shaped pattern with strong exports but weak domestic demand and ongoing property sector stress. Authorities are seen maintaining modest fiscal and monetary support as deflationary pressures ease in 2026.
"Economic growth accelerated to +5.0% y/y in Q1 2026, vs. +4.5% in Q4 2025."
"It stood at 5% in 2025 as a whole and it is expected to slow moderately in 2026."
"Growth remains characterized by a K-shaped trajectory."
"The authorities will maintain supportive fiscal and monetary policies, but their measures will continue to be modest, even in a less supportive global environment."
"Deflationary pressures are expected to decline in 2026, notably thanks to higher global energy prices and anti-involution measures implemented by the authorities."
(This article was created with the help of an Artificial Intelligence tool and reviewed by an editor.)