China's first-quarter GDP growth forecast at 4.8% despite Iran war disruptions

China's first-quarter economic performance is expected to show solid growth of around 4.8%, according to Standard Chartered chief economist Ding Shuang. This forecast aligns with economists' predictions compiled by financial data provider Wind. The National Bureau of Statistics will release official GDP figures on Thursday. Geopolitical tensions from the US-Israeli war on Iran and shipping blockades in the Strait of Hormuz are likely to overshadow economic indicators. Beijing's flexible growth target reduces the likelihood of immediate stimulus measures. Analysts anticipate a wait-and-see approach from Chinese leadership regarding economic disruptions. The focus will shift to assessing second-quarter impacts from ongoing conflicts. First-quarter growth builds on a relatively high base from the previous year.