China’s Trade Surplus, New Lending Top Estimates

China’s trade surplus and lending exceeded forecasts in November, underscoring the case for higher interest rates and a stronger exchange rate to stem the nation’s escalating inflation.

Exports rose 35 percent to a record $153.3 billion from November 2009 and imports advanced 38 percent to an unprecedented $130.4 billion, leaving a $22.9 billion excess, the customs bureau said on its website. Loans were 564 billion yuan ($85 billion).