China reports third-quarter GDP growth of 4.6%, exceeding expectations

China’s statistics bureau on Friday reported third-quarter GDP growth of 4.6% year-on-year, beating the 4.5% expected by economists polled by Reuters.

That’s down from second-quarter growth of 4.7% year over year.

Beijing has faced public scrutiny over its ability to meet its own annual growth target of “around 5%.”

Faced with poor consumer sentiment and a weakening real estate sector, the Chinese government has stepped up stimulus measures in recent weeks to boost the flagging economy.

This is a developing story. Please check back later for updates.