The Chinese mainland’s national trade promotion system kicked off 2023 with a strong performance, issuing 1.78 million commercial certificates in the first quarter—a 14.91% increase year-on-year. These certificates help exporters prove the origin of their goods, unlocking preferential tariffs and smoother customs procedures.
Preferential certificates of origin led the surge, with 621,700 issued—a remarkable 42.67% jump compared to last year. Meanwhile, certificates under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) climbed 27.03% to reach 69,160 in Q1, signaling growing use of Asia-Pacific free trade pathways.
Zhao Ping, spokesperson for the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, highlighted that even in a complex external environment, Chinese foreign trade enterprises are leveraging free trade agreements like RCEP to diversify markets and deepen international cooperation.
For young entrepreneurs and global market enthusiasts, these numbers underscore a strategic shift. By tapping into preferential origin certificates and regional trade pacts, exporters from the Chinese mainland are carving new routes—from Southeast Asia to Africa—and boosting competitiveness on the world stage.
As global trade patterns evolve, keep an eye on how origin credentials and FTAs shape the next wave of export growth. What markets are you exploring next? Share your insights below.
Reference(s):
China's Q1 trade certificate issuance surges 14.9% year-on-year
cgtn.com
