The outlook for exports in the second half of this year may be challenging, Shen Danyang, spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce, told a news briefing on Wednesday.

"We have to overcome many difficulties to reach this year's trade growth target but that does not mean we will miss it," Shen said.

He added that the State Council is ready to roll out measures that will lower export costs as well as boost quality and services.

About one third of the 1,900 exporters surveyed in June by the ministry said that the value of exports this year will be less than last year, Shen said.