China’s economy grew 5.4% in the first quarter as exporters rushed to beat Trump’s tariffs

BANGKOK (AP) — China’s economy expanded at a 5.4% annual pace in January-March, the government said Wednesday, supported by strong exports ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump's rapid increases in tariffs on Chinese products. With the trade war clouding the outlook, analysts are forecasting that the world's second largest economy will slow significantly in coming months, however, as tariffs as high as 145% on U.S. imports from China take effect. Beijing has hit back at the U.S. with 125% tariffs on American exports, while also stressing its determination to keep its own markets open to trade and investment. Chinese leader…