MNI: Downward Pressure on China Economy May Increase: NBS Spox

     BEIJING (MNI) - China's economy faces increasing downward pressure, with

"complex" domestic and external uncertainties ahead, the National Bureau of

Statistics said Friday at the release of their November economic scorecard. 

     A slowing global economy dragged external demand lower, with the impact

likely outweighing trade conflicts with the U.S., NBS spokesman Mao Shengyong

told the press. 

     Weak consumer spending has been exacerbated by declining auto production

and sales, Mao said.

     However, investment in manufacturing may rebound in 2019 as consumer and

government spending picks up, with public projects approved by the government

set to commence next year a boost, Mao said. China will also push through

further tax reductions and cuts next year, another aid to consumer spending, he

said.

--MNI London Bureau; tel: +44 203-586-2225; email: les.commons@marketnews.com

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