In the first four months of 2025, the Chinese mainland's foreign trade momentum defied global headwinds, climbing 2.4% year-on-year to reach 14.14 trillion yuan ($1.96 trillion). This uptick reflects robust export demand and a strategic pivot towards high-tech goods.
Exports stole the spotlight, surging 7.5% to 8.39 trillion yuan, while imports dipped 4.2% to 5.75 trillion yuan. The widening gap underscores strong overseas appetite for the mainland's manufactured products, from electric vehicles to consumer electronics.
High-tech sectors posted standout growth, with combined imports and exports hitting 1.52 trillion yuan—a 7.4% jump. Components for semiconductors, new-energy materials, and advanced machinery led the charge, highlighting the mainland's push up the global value chain.
Private enterprises drove much of the expansion, registering 8.05 trillion yuan in trade, up 6.8%. These firms now account for 56.9% of total foreign trade, contributing 3.7 percentage points to overall growth. Entrepreneurs credit streamlined customs procedures and digital platforms for accelerating deal-making.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations remained the top partner, with trade volumes between the mainland and ASEAN members rising 9.2%. Supply-chain diversification and regional trade agreements have strengthened these ties, offering mutual economic benefits.
April data showed an acceleration in trade growth, with the monthly rate outpacing the first quarter by 4.3 percentage points. Exports gained further traction, and imports rebounded from earlier declines, signaling balanced, resilient activity.
Local governments and departments across the Chinese mainland have coordinated policy responses to external shocks—driving steady economic recovery and maintaining stable trade growth. Analysts say this agility bodes well for the mainland's role in a shifting global trade landscape.
As the world navigates evolving markets, the Chinese mainland's early 2025 performance offers a glimpse into how innovation, private-sector dynamism, and regional partnerships can keep trade engines humming.
Reference(s):
China's foreign trade up 2.4 percent in first four months of 2025
cgtn.com
