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The last time China used a range, rather than singular figure, to forecast economic growth was in 1995.
Analysts said inflow of new business was a key driver of the improvement in the gauge.
Spurred by the Central Bank's cash injection, Chinese stocks rallied on Tuesday.
The purchasing managers' index (PMI) came in at 49.4, down from December's 49.7.
China described the act of sending the US Navy destroyer near the Xisha island as "deliberate provocation" by Washington.
Asian countries that have dengue and chikungunya are also at risk.
Alibaba's marketplaces have been growing faster than China's retail sector as a whole.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang said he hoped Kerry's visit would help "eliminate doubts between the two countries".
China's stock markets have slumped about 18 per cent so far this year on concerns about the slowing economy.
Xi's BRICS partner, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Tehran in November.
