Rupee higher on strong China trade data

The rupee rises after opening flat, at 54.62/64 versus last close at 54.75/76.

"There is a small bout of selling that has come in after the good China data," says foreign bank dealer. China's exports in December grew 14.1 percent from a year earlier to hit a seven-month peak, data showed on Thursday, while analysts polled by Reuters expected annual growth of 4 percent. Imports grew 6 percent. Gold buying slows as prices move sideways The government's move to mend public finances is also positive for the rupee. Local shares open strong, up 0.53 percent.