China's imports and exports both rose in value in July, but the outlook for the whole economy remains uncertain due to weak domestic demand.

Exports gained 7 percent in dollar terms from the same period last year to mark a fourth straight monthly increase.

China's customs data show a sharp increase in shipments to Southeast Asia. Exports to the US and Europe were also brisk.

Imports grew 7.2 percent for the first increase in two months.

However, the overall economy is still suffering from a prolonged slump in the real estate market, which is raising concerns about deflationary trends.

Another dark cloud for China's economy is the US and the European Union have slapped additional tariffs on the country's electric vehicles.

These trading partners say the Chinese EVs are being sold in overseas markets for unfairly low prices due to overproduction at home.