Investing.com– China’s trade balance grew more than expected in December, helped by stronger-than-expected exports as local companies braced for US trade tariffs under President-elect Donald Trump.

grew to $104.84 billion in December, compared to an expected $100 billion, government data showed Monday. The reading was also up significantly from the $92.44 billion seen last month.

rose 10.7% year-on-year, more than the expected 7.3% and up from 6.7% seen in November. The strong print came as domestic exporters first offload their cargo to the US ahead of the imposition of high import tariffs by Trump, who has vowed to impose the duties. from “day one” of his presidency.

Trump will take office on January 20.

The sharp jump in exports also largely offset an unexpected rise in Chinese imports, as domestic demand showed some signs of improvement amid steady stimulus measures from Beijing. .

grew 1% in December, against expectations for a drop of 1.5%. Imports also improved from the 3.9% decline seen in the previous month.

China’s domestic demand is expected to improve this year, especially if Beijing provides more stimulus measures to support the economy. The government is expected to increase fiscal spending to boost the economy through the impact of Trump’s tariffs.