Exports grew 23.9% in U.S. dollar terms in July from a year earlier, official customs data showed Friday, topping Reuters-polled analysts' forecast for a 22.2% growth. Exports of mechanical and electrical products accounted for more than 60% of China's total shipments in the first seven months this year, according to China's customs authority, driven by demand for electric vehicles, lithium battery and wind power generating equipment. Shipments to the U.S. grew around 17% from a year ago, quickening from about 14% in June, according to Wind, while imports increased 15%. China's exports to the European Union continued to grow, expanding 16% year on year in July, while imports from the bloc shrank 1%. The trade surplus came in at $112.5 billion, exceeding analysts' estimates of about $107 billion, while narrowing from $125.6 billion in June, customs data showed.