China's growth accelerates to 4.5% on AI-driven exports

China's economy grew 4.5% in the third quarter of 2026, up from 4.3% in the previous period but at the low end of Beijing's 4.5–5% annual target. Demand for chips and components for AI data centres has boosted exports, with the trade surplus on track to exceed last year's record $1.2tn.

• China's Q3 GDP grew 4.5%, up from 4.3% in the prior quarter
• Growth sits at the bottom of the 4.5–5% annual target range
• Trade surplus may surpass last year's record $1.2tn
• Chip and AI data-centre component exports offset weak domestic demand