China reports Q3 GDP growth of 4.5% amid APEC meeting in Hong Kong

China has reported economic data for the third quarter of 2026, showing a GDP growth rate of 4.5% year-on-year, which exceeded previous estimates of 4.4%. Retail sales also outperformed expectations, growing by 1.1% year-on-year compared to the anticipated 0.5%.

Industrial production for September rose by 5.5% year-on-year, surpassing the expected 5.4% increase. This growth was supported by sectors such as computer, communication, and other electronic equipment manufacturing, which saw a 16.4% increase. However, certain sectors like steel and cement production experienced declines.

In Hong Kong, the APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting is being hosted, focusing on regional economic resilience and digital infrastructure. During the event, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee met with Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) President Djordje Emic, expressing support for the bank establishing an office in Hong Kong to facilitate green economy transitions and sustainable development.