BEIJING (AP) — China's exports grew strongly in July but import growth fell as its rapid economic expansion cooled, possibly hurting global demand.

Exports rose 38.1 percent over a year ago to $145.5 billion while imports gained 22.7 percent to $116.8 billion, the customs agency reported yesterday. Export growth eased from June's 43.9 percent rate while import growth tumbled from June's 34.1 percent expansion.

Weakness in China's demand for imports could dent its ability to help to drive a global recovery amid Europe's debt crisis and slack sales elsewhere.