China's Foreign Ministry criticized the Trump administration's trade investigation as a "pretext" for tariffs. Meanwhile, China is moving ahead with a five-year plan that may rankle trade partners.

Former DNC Chair Donna Brazile and former Republican Congressman Patrick McHenry joined ABC's "Martha Raddatz on Sunday for "This Week" roundtable. McHenry argued that the war in Iran and the attack on Venezuela are part of a wider strategy to gain leverage over China: MARTHA RADDATZ: Is it extraordinary to you that this is a president who said,

China has reported its exports rose nearly 22% in the first two months of the year, while trade with the United States contracted.

China's trade growth handily beat forecasts at the start of the year. Exports continue to be driven by ships, chips, and autos, as global demand offsets the drag from US tariffs.

China typically combines January and February trade data to smooth distortions from the shifting Lunar New Year holiday.

The world’s most vital energy artery has been largely paralysed since the launch of US-Israeli strikes on Iran last month.

By David Lawder and Elizabeth Howcroft PARIS, March 15 (Reuters) - Top U.S. and Chinese economic officials wrapped up the first of two days of talks in Paris on Sunday to iron out kinks in their trade truce and clear a path for U.