Bangkok, Jul 15 (AP) China's economy expanded at a slower-than-forecast 4.7% annual rate in the last quarter, the government reported Monday.

That was sharply below the 5.3% annual pace of growth seen in the first quarter of the year.

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Economists say weak consumer demand and reduced government spending are dragging on growth.

The economy grew at a 5% pace in the first half of the year, at the target set by the government for around 5% growth. (AP)

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(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)