China posts shock trade deficit

China has reported a surprise trade deficit in February after exports slowed down.

Shipments grew at a weaker-than-expected 2.4% in February from the same month a year ago, latest figures show.

Imports on the other hand increased by 19.4%, resulting in a trade deficit of $7.3bn (£4.5bn).

The news comes at a time when China has been facing criticism over its export-led growth policy.

The US and other developed nations have accused China of keeping the value of its currency, the yuan, artificially low to boost foreign sales.