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.

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.

Canada to issue permits for up to 49,000 China-made EVs in 2026 under new trade deal, cutting tariffs to 6.1% from 106.1%.

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.