Trucks move containers at?a port. [CFP]

China's non-manufacturing index came in at 56.0 in December, up 6.3 percent from the previous month, according to data released by the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing on January 3.

Backlogs were reduced in December while other indicators all rose by varying degrees, marking a rally in the service industry. Indicators relating to business activities and new orders both topped 50, a reading which indicates an expansion.

Due to a seasonal surge in demand, the retailing and catering industries helped drive up the December data with strong showings.

The Federation's vice director Cai Jin said China's economic growth is facing an adjustment under pressure from contracting exports and investment. But he pointed out that the service industry will get a boost from the establishment of tax reforms and the implementation of tax cuts.