Graphics: 2014 Imports and Exports

(Beijing) – The total value of China's imports and exports last year was 26.43 trillion yuan, up 2.3 percent on 2013, data published by the General Administration of Customs on January 13 show. The increase was below the government's target of 7.5 percent and the 7.6 percent figure for 2013. Customs spokesman Zheng Yuesheng said the weak growth of foreign trade was due to slow economic recovery around the world, less competitive products from China, less foreign direct investment and falling commodity prices. The country saw a slower increase in exports and a decline in imports, the data show. The foreign trade surplus rose to 2.35 trillion yuan, 45.9 percent higher than that for 2013.