China's external trade rockets. - Chinese customs have announced a world sales record in the purchase of Chinese goods. Its exports increased by 34.9%, compared to figures for the same month last year and are now worth $153.3 billion. Its imports, however, have grown even more swiftly, from 37.7% to a figure of $130.4 billion and have subsequently managed to slightly reduce the trade surplus. (I.L./transl.fl)