Chinese economic growth slows to 7.5% China's economy slowed to 7.5 per cent growth in the second quarter, weighed down by faltering exports, sluggish retail sales and softer investment. It was China's second straight quarter of weaker growth as a rebound at the end of last year proved to be shortlived. With the downturn showing little sign of abating, there is a real risk that Chinese economic growth will fall below the government's target of 7.5 per cent growth in 2013. It would be the first time since the Asian financial crisis 15 years ago that the Chinese government has missed its annual growth target. But the country's new leadership has so far displayed minimal concern about the slowdown, resisting calls from local officials and companies for stimulus measures to prop up growth. Li Keqiang, the premier, said last week that the economy was performing in line with expectations. More to follow ...