The rate, which slightly exceeded the 5.1 per cent average estimate from analysts polled by Reuters, positions Beijing to hit its full-year target of about 5 per cent. It shows how China has been able to keep growth on track through exports and investment even as it struggles with weak demand at home.

A surge of exports from Chinese manufacturers supported the growth, as customers and producers alike took advantage of the U.S.-China trade war ceasefire.

China's trade surplus surged in June, which analysts have attributed to exporters rushing to ship products before U.S. tariffs recommence.