China trade surplus surges again

China’s trade surplus was nearly four times bigger than expected in April, with exports far exceeding imports.

In April the trade surplus was $11.4bn (£6.9bn) according to the customs agency; analysts had expected a figure of about $3bn.

In March, China reported an unexpected trade surplus of $140m.

The news comes during US-China talks on trade relations and will put the issue of the Chinese currency in the spotlight.

Many in the US, especially exporters, argue that China’s currency is undervalued making Chinese goods highly competitive in world markets.