China's foreign trade in goods rose 1.3% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, reaching 10.3 trillion yuan ($1.42 trillion), according to data released Monday by the General Administration of Customs. This uptick comes amid shifting global demand and underscores the nation's economic adaptability.
The growth, measured in yuan terms, highlights sustained momentum in cross-border commerce despite geopolitical uncertainties and supply chain realignments. Analysts attribute the positive figures to Beijing's targeted trade policies and deepening economic partnerships with Belt and Road countries and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) members.
"This incremental growth reflects China's evolving role in global trade networks," said Wang Li, a senior economist at the Asian Development Research Institute. "While traditional exports face competition, high-value sectors like electronics and renewable energy components show increasing demand."
The report arrives as multinational corporations reassess Asia-Pacific supply chains. Investors are particularly monitoring regional free trade agreements that could amplify China's commercial activity through 2025.
