China says 2016 growth slows to 6.7%

Beijing (AFP) – China’s economic growth slowed to 6.7 percent in 2016, official data showed Friday, the slowest rate in more than a quarter of a century.

Expansion in the fourth quarter of last year, however, showed a slight acceleration to 6.8 percent, according to figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

“China’s economy was within a proper range with improved quality and efficiency. However, we should also be aware that the domestic and external conditions are still complicated and severe,” the NBS said in a statement.