Every day, products worth roughly $1 billion make the journey from the Chinese mainland to U.S. ports, defying tariffs that top out at 55%. Bloomberg's latest analysis of Chinese customs data reveals that, six months into the U.S.-initiated trade war, export volumes have remained surprisingly resilient.
That strength is driven by sectors where the Chinese mainland holds sway—especially rare earths, electronics and e-bikes. U.S. demand for electric bicycles exploded in the third quarter, pushing e-bike shipments above $500 million—up slightly year on year. Similarly, smartphones, laptops, tablets and computer components accounted for nearly $8 billion in exports during the same period.
Overall, more than $100 billion in Chinese mainland goods crossed the Pacific in Q3 alone. September exports jumped 8.3% year on year—doubling August's 4.4% growth and beating forecasts—underscoring deep supply-chain links that tariffs cannot easily sever.
"Realigning production will take time," warn Bloomberg economists Chang Shu and David Qu, noting that no other supplier can quickly displace the Chinese mainland in key industries. This leverage gives Chinese exporters short-term bargaining power with American importers.
Diplomatic channels remain open. In an October 18 video call, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. They agreed to schedule a new round of trade talks soon. China's Ministry of Commerce reiterated that "if forced to fight, China will fight to the end, and for talks, the door is open."
As the world watches, these developments highlight how deeply intertwined global economies have become—and how tariffs may shift the battlefield, but not always the outcomes.
Reference(s):
China ships $1b goods to U.S. daily despite tariffs: Bloomberg
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