BEIJING, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- The World Bank on Thursday projected China's economy to grow 6.5 percent in 2018, adding that the country's economy "continues to perform well."

"Consumption will remain the main driver of growth, while higher investor uncertainty and slower credit growth are expected to weigh on investment," said John Litwack, World Bank Lead Economist for China.

He noted a deceleration in global demand growth and higher U.S. import tariffs would negatively affect net exports. Authorities have the policy space necessary to support the economy in the current environment of high uncertainty.

The China Economic Update, the World Bank's regular assessment of China's economy, notes that the current account recorded a small deficit in the first three quarters of 2018, primarily driven by stronger imports.

In response to slowing growth and a challenging external environment, the government introduced tax incentives for households and firms, additional support for small businesses, and higher local government capital spending.

To stimulate the economy, China has room to shift government spending toward health, education, and social protection.

"Such measures would create jobs, deliver higher-quality public services, and provide better support to vulnerable families. In the short term, these measures would encourage households to save less and spend more. In the long run, they would boost worker productivity and China's growth potential and help the country achieve a more equal society," said Elitza Mileva, World Bank Senior Economist and main author of the Update.