China's major industrial firms reported steady growth in profits during the first three quarters of 2025, with combined earnings reaching 5.37 trillion yuan ($2.8 trillion), according to data released Monday by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The 3.2% year-on-year increase reflects a resilient recovery trajectory amid global economic headwinds.
September Surge Signals Momentum
A notable highlight was September's 21.6% profit surge compared to 2024, marking the fastest monthly growth this year. NBS chief statistician Yu Weining attributed the acceleration to strategic investments in high-tech and equipment manufacturing sectors, which have become key drivers of what officials term 'new quality productive forces.'
Key Drivers of Growth
From January to September, industrial operating revenue grew 2.4% annually, outpacing earlier quarterly trends. Private enterprises and foreign-funded firms showed particularly strong performance, with Yu noting 'improved profitability across all enterprise types.' The low base effect from previous years also contributed to the upward trend.
Sector-Wide Improvements
While the NBS did not disclose sector-specific profit margins, the agency emphasized that advanced manufacturing clusters are increasingly offsetting slower growth in traditional industries. This structural shift aligns with China's broader economic modernization goals, offering insights for investors monitoring Asia's largest economy.
