China: Shanghai shares down before China data, Hong Kong rises

[HONG KONG] Shanghai stocks sank in opening exchanges Tuesday ahead of the release of Chinese trade data, with expectations of another weak reading that could fuel more market volatility.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index slid 0.84 percent, or 25.98 points, to 3,054.44.

The Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, lost 0.88 per cent, or 14.76 points, to 1,662.57.

However, Hong Kong's benchmark Hang Seng Index rose 0.52 per cent, or 106.06 points, to 20,689.58.

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