China’s Economy in 2026 Off to a Good Start

China's economy has started the year on a strongly recovering trajectory in the first quarter of 2026, with a series of high-frequency indicators highlighting its resilience and potential to achieve the annual growth target of 4.5-5.0 percent. 

From robust offline consumption and thriving port logistics to vibrant entrepreneurial activity, the latest data shows the giant economy adapting to global uncertainties. 

Between January and March, China's offline consumption payment volume rose 3.4 percent year-on-year, with the rate 2.2 percentage points higher than in the fourth quarter of last year. Over the period, the deadweight of cargo ships on departure and arrival at major Chinese ports rose by 9.6 percent and 5.4 percent year-on-year, respectively. Meanwhile, the country's start-up activity rose by 8.8 percent year-on-year in the first quarter, according to a report by the Economic Information Daily on Wednesday. 

Overall, the economy has started the year positively, with stronger resilience and steady progress. This momentum is rooted in China's structural strengths – including a complete industrial supply chain, a massive consumer market, and a steadfast commitment to opening-up – which underpin its economic stability. 

Following years of high-speed growth, China has firmly established itself as the world's second-largest economy. According to the Government Work Report, China targets economic growth of 4.5 percent to 5.0 percent this year, with room to outperform. This target reflects China's economic fundamentals.

Yesterday, on the Scottish football front, Falkirk weren't able to throw a spanner in Rangers' title charge. The latter won 6-3 to move back to second place. And Celtic stepped back to third.

It has been a Scottish Premiership title race like no other and there is no margin for error with just five games left in the most dramatic of seasons.