China Industrial Profits Slow 15.1% Growth in June Amid Easing Prices

China's industrial profits grew 15.1% in June 2026, according to the National Bureau of Statistics, marking a slowdown from May's 21.1% increase. For the first half of the year, profits climbed 18.7%, slightly down from an 18.8% rate in the January-May period. The recovery in earnings has improved from a decline of 3.6% in June last year, aided by positive comparisons to last year's figures and steady factory-gate price increases. This trend is significant for investors as it indicates current economic challenges amid easing energy prices and potential policy adjustments from the upcoming Politburo meeting.