China’s GDP surprise can’t mask property mess

China’s upward gross domestic product (GDP) surprise may offer more fodder to anthropologists than economists.

One of the key consumption strengths was spending on alcohol and restaurants – and at a moment when many mainlanders could be excused for looking to drown their sorrows over distressed property markets.

Yet a strong dose of sobriety is also in order amid excitement that GDP jumped 4.9% in the three months ended September year on year.