China consumer price index drops below zero in February

The national consumer price index (CPI) in February decreased to negative lands for the first time since January last year, when low food, tobacco and alcohol prices decreased.

The consumer price index decreased by 0.7 % last month in the previous year, and data Published The National Office for National Statistics showed on Sunday, as it was reflected in an annual basis by 0.5 % in January.

Reading was absent from annual contraction of 0.5 %, according to the Reuters poll of the economists.

The consumer price index in China in February decreased by 0.2 % on a monthly basis, and at the same time, compared to an increase of 0.7 % in January.

The data comes at a time when investors continue to search for signs that stimulation measures in Beijing can help strengthen the country Economic recovery.

On Wednesday, China set the 2025 GDP goal in “”About 5 %And plans to achieve stability in economic growth by supporting local demand.

Beijing also reviewed the goal of annual consumer inflation to “about 2 %” – the lowest in more than two decades – from 3 % or higher in previous years, according to the Asia Association Policy Institute.

The goal of the new inflation will be a ceiling more than one goal to achieve.

Economists He says The goal of growth in China can be about 5 % this year is difficult to achieve, especially amid constantly weak local consumption and Rising trade conflict With the administration of US President Donald Trump.

– Evelyn Cheng & Anniek Bao of CNBC contributed to this report.