Hong Kong, Apr 14 (AP) China's exports grew 2.5 per cent in March from a year ago, significantly slowing from the previous two months as uncertainties rose from the Iran war and its impact on energy prices and global demand.

The March export data released by China's customs agency Tuesday missed analysts' estimates and was sharply down from the 21.8 per cent export growth recorded for January and February.

Imports last month surged 27.8 per cent, up from the 19.8 per cent year-on-year increase in the first two months of this year.

Technology-related exports including a jump in shipments of semiconductors from China on the global artificial intelligence boom have powered its robust exports in early 2026, but economists say impacts from the prolonged Iran war could affect overall global demand for Chinese exports this year. (AP) PY PY

Export growth slowdown reflects uncertainty from the Iran war and weaker global demand for Chinese goods. China's export growth slowed sharply in March, with exports rising 2.5 per cent year-on-year after much faster growth in the previous two months. The weaker performance was reported alongside concerns that the Iran war may increase uncertainty for energy prices and global demand, potentially affecting Chinese exports. Imports rose strongly in March, and technology-related shipments, including semiconductors, remained a significant support to export performance in early 2026.