China's economy expanded 6.7% in the second quarter, the government reported Friday local time, matching Q1's year-over-year gain and just above views for a drop to 6.6%.

The last two quarters show the weakest growth since the start of 2009, but they suggest that the gradual deceleration may be ending, easing concerns about global growth that could upset financial markets.

Many economists also have doubts about the accuracy of Chinese data.