China's economy is showing signs of life as it touts its growing relationship with Russia

• China's export volumes jumped 7.1% in the first two months of 2024, far exceeding expectations of a 1.9% increase.
• Exports to Russia climbed 12.5% as the two countries look to deepen ties.
• To the alarm of the West, the two countries have strengthened ties since Moscow's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Chinese export volumes have shot past estimates so far this year, boosted by deeper trade ties with Russia and other emerging markets, the Financial Times reported.

Volumes rose 7.1% in the first two months of 2024, eclipsing a Reuters poll forecast of 1.9%. It's a good sign for Beijing, whose economy was hit with weak export earnings last year, amid other struggles.