China posted a merchandise trade surplus of $25.64 billion in December, the customs office said on Friday.
That was well shy of forecasts for a surplus of $32.15 billion, and down sharply from the $33.80 billion surplus in November.
Exports were up 4.3 percent on year - also missing expectations for an increase of 5.0 percent following the 12.7 percent surge in the previous month.
Imports spiked an annual 8.3 percent versus forecasts for 5.0 percent after rising 5.3 percent a month earlier.
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