China had a $25.2 billion trade surplus with the United States in July, down slightly from $25.4 billion in June, which was the highest since October 2015, customs data showed today.

China also recorded a $142.75 billion trade surplus with the US for the first seven months of the year.

US President Donald Trump is believed to be close to a decision on how to respond to what he considers China's unfair trade practices, as Washington prepares to launch an inquiry into Beijing's intellectual property and trade practices.

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