Manufacturing sector maintains momentum

Analysts say consumption, exports will drive the country's economic activity

China's manufacturing purchasing managers' index (PMI) stood at 51.3 in January, down from 51.6 in December, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics on Wednesday. Analysts said the economy remains on track as exports and consumption continue to bolster growth.

The reading has remained above 50 - which indicates economic activity expansion - for 18 consecutive months, and the reading is the same as that of January 2017.