China consumption slows as retail sales and investment data disappoint

China's latest economic data reveals a slowdown in consumer spending with retail sales growing by only 2.3% in April, below expectations and a decrease from March. In contrast, industrial production exceeded forecasts, rising by 6.7%. Fixed asset investment and real estate investment also showed weaker growth, hinting at broader economic challenges. Additionally, China is launching a bond issuance program to fund strategic projects, which may impact economic dynamics in the coming months.