China's foreign trade has demonstrated resilience in 2025, recording 3.5% year-on-year growth in total imports and exports during the first seven months, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce. This steady performance comes amid ongoing global economic uncertainties and shifting supply chain dynamics.
The sustained growth highlights China's evolving role as both a manufacturing powerhouse and consumer market, with analysts noting increased demand for renewable energy components and electric vehicles driving export figures. Import growth remained stable at 2.1%, reflecting continued domestic demand for raw materials and advanced manufacturing equipment.
Ministry officials attribute the results to improved trade facilitation measures and strategic partnerships with ASEAN countries, which now account for 18.7% of China's total foreign trade. The data shows particular strength in cross-border e-commerce platforms, which grew 28% year-on-year, offsetting slower growth in traditional export sectors.
While challenges persist in key Western markets, emerging trade corridors with Middle Eastern and African nations showed 12% growth. Economists suggest this diversification strategy could help insulate China's economy from potential recessions in major developed economies.
