Weak trade figures 'signal slowing economy'

Tough times seen for industry as exports contract for the second consecutive month

China's trade momentum fizzled out in March, with imports and exports unexpectedly declining in what analysts said was yet another sign of economic deceleration - and a warning of prolonged difficulties for manufacturers.

Total trade contracted 9 percent to $332.5 billion, the Customs Administration said on Thursday. Exports tumbled 6.6 percent year-on-year to $170.1 billion after dropping 18.1 percent in February. It's the first time since 2009 that exports declined for two consecutive months.