The Chinese economy grew by 7.9 percent in the June quarter, according to official figures released yesterday. The rate topped the 6.1 percent growth recorded earlier this year. Economists attribute the growth to the Chinese government's stimulus package, which in turn led to demand for commodities and energy and maintained domestic employment. As a commodity exporter, Australia has pinned its economic hopes on China's growth, which looks set to continue for at least another 18 months, according to predictions.