China's economy showed further signs of strain today. Data showed a sharp slowdown in consumer spending and factory production, while investment growth also hit a record low following the trade war with the US.<br />'' <br />'' Beijing is battling a tariffs row with the United States, as well as a weak global outlook. At the same time, it is trying to control a high level of debt at home.<br />'' <br />'' A National Bureau of Statistics official warned China was facing a "complex international economic situation" with downward pressure on the domestic economy.<br />'' <br />'' Analysts also warned of more headwinds for the world's number two economy. China expanded six per cent in the third quarter, its worst reading in almost three decades.<br />'' <br />'' Authorities have unveiled a series of measures to kickstart growth including major tax and rate cuts, and scrapping foreign investment restrictions in its stock market.<br />