Rise in imports helps shrink trade surplus

BEIJING - China's trade surplus in November shrank compared to the previous month but was still around $23 billion, with imports and exports both hitting record highs.

Economists said the nation's surplus is likely to go on shrinking in the long term, even though it may remain above $20 billion for a while, suggesting China should resist pressure from some countries to allow its currency to rise sharply.

The latest figures were in line with policymakers' efforts to ensure the country's economic growth is balanced and were released as the three-day Central Economic Work Conference kicked off on Friday. The session will set the tone for next year's economic policymaking.