Storyline: China's GDP expands 5.3 pct year on year in H1 [Voice_over] Steady improvement despite challenges. China's GDP reached around 66 trillion yuan, or about 9.2 trillion US dollars, representing year on year growth of 5.3 %. [Sound_bite] Sheng Laiyun, Deputy Commissioner, National Bureau of Statistics: "Production and demand grew steadily, employment was generally stable, household income continued to increase, new growth drivers witnessed robust development and high-quality development made new strides, helping ensure overall social stability." [Voice_over] The continuous recovery of the economy supported by stable employment and income levels have led to moderate price level increases. Total retail sales of consumer goods rose by 5% year on year in the first half of 2025. The total value of imports and exports of goods reached about 21 trillion yuan, with the total value of exports up by 7.2 percent, hitting a historic high. Emerging technology like big data and artificial intelligence have given rise to new consumption scenarios boosting online retail sales of physical goods by 6% year on year, while internal and external challenges remain for the country's economy. [Sound_bite] Sheng Laiyun, Deputy Commissioner, National Bureau of Statistics: "We must be aware that the international political and economic circumstances are intricate and complicated, and the foundation for sustained economic recovery at home is not yet solid." [Voice_over] Despite these challenges, Sheng said China's economic performance stays strong supported by efficient government policies, and China continues to be a crucial engine and stabilizing force for economic growth across the world. [Restrictions : No access Chinese mainland]