China People's CongressOutspoken China economist casts doubt on growth forecast
Professor says contradictions in government statistics do not add up
Eighty percent of China's provinces, major cities and autonomous regions experienced slower growth last year, says Xiang. © Reuters
ISSAKU HARADA, Nikkei staff writer
BEIJING -- The Chinese economy is facing strong downward pressure this year, said a Renmin University professor, known for his candid views and skepticism of government statistics, citing Beijing's eager push for economic stimulus as evidence that the real growth is weaker than its official forecast.