Shanghai, July 2: Chinese stocks opened slightly lower on Monday following data showing a drop in Chinese factory activity and ahead of the expected imposition of US tariffs later in the week.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index slipped 0.21 percent, or 5.84 points, to 2,841.58, while the Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, edged down 0.09 percent, or 1.40 points, to 1,606.22.

Hong Kong markets are closed for a public holiday.

(AFP/APP)