China’s economic recovery hit a rough patch as factory output and retail sales expanded at their slowest pace in more than 12 months, signaling renewed headwinds for the world’s second-largest economy. Industrial production and consumer spending, both key drivers of growth, showed signs of strain, reflecting ongoing difficulties in restoring broad-based momentum. The data underscores the difficulty authorities face in balancing structural reforms with the need to stimulate demand amid global uncertainties and domestic market hesitancy.