The reason for the question is the Washington Post headline that told readers that the growth of China's economy had slowed to a "crawl" in the first quarter. The "crawl" in China was a 6.1 percent annual growth rate.
On a per capital basis this is a more rapid growth rate than Mexico has achieved in any year since NAFTA's passage. The Washington Post has repeated touted Mexico's fast growth in the post-NAFTA era, on one occasion even telling readers that Mexico's economy had quadrupled since 1988. Unfortunately, this growth figure was just a number that the Post's editorial board had invented to help make its case for NAFTA. The true growth figure was just 83 percent.
Anyhow, it is worth noting that the growth rate that is describing as a crawl in reference to China is much better than its poster child Mexico has even managed to attain since the passage of NAFTA.
If you enjoyed this article, please consider making a tax-deductible donation today. For over 30 years, The American Prospect has delivered independent reporting that exposes corporate power, investigates political corruption, and analyzes threats to our democracy. Unlike many media outlets, we’re not owned by billionaires or corporations—we’re powered by readers like you.
Today’s independent journalism faces unprecedented challenges. Your support makes our reporting possible and keeps our work free and accessible to all. Whether it’s $5 or $50, every contribution helps sustain our nonprofit newsroom.
Join our community of supporters and make a donation today to help keep independent journalism thriving.
Copyright 2025 | The American Prospect, Inc. | All Rights Reserved