The result topped the previous record for January set in 2002
The manufacturing gained 1.4% following an abysmal performance in October
A notable deceleration in emerging markets drove the slowdown while developed markets saw continued modest credit growth
Companies optimistic about sales growth over the next 12 months
There were 1.948 million sales of light vehicles last year, an increase of 2.7% compared to 2015
Worst factory output in nearly three years helps thrust economy into reverse
The gains were widespread with autos and building materials contributing to most of the increase
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Retail sales were up in eight provinces
Economists had expected a gain of 0.4% from the previous month