China shares up 0.42 percent in morning trade

An investor looks at the stock price monitor at a private securities company on Thursday, March 28, 2013, in Shanghai, China. Renewed jitters about the debt crisis in Europe sent Asian stock markets lower Thursday. AP/Eugene Hoshiko

SHANGHAI – Chinese shares were up 0.42 percent in early trading on Wednesday ahead of a holiday, but gains were likely to be capped before China announces economic figures later in the month, dealers said.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index rose 9.33 points to 2,237.07.

The government will announce March inflation and trade figures next week, followed by other indicators, including gross domestic product for the first quarter, later this month.