China's economy still faces downward pressure, while policy steps to support the economy are starting to bear fruit, statistics bureau said.

Mao Shengyong, spokesman for the bureau, made the comments after official data showed China's economy grew at a steady 6.4% pace in the first quarter from a year earlier, defying expectations for a slowdown, as industrial output jumped sharply. The bureau also said the retail sales climbed 8.7 percent on year in March - beating expectations for an increase of 8.4% and up from 8.2% in February. Fixed asset investment rose 6.3% on year, in line with expectations and up from 6.1% in the previous month.

There are favourable factors for supporting industrial output growth and it is expected to maintain a steady pace, Mao said.