China's foreign trade rose 3.8% year-on-year in yuan terms in 2025, according to official data released Wednesday, underscoring the resilience of the world's second-largest economy despite persistent global headwinds. The growth, reported on January 14, 2026, reflects strategic efforts to stabilize supply chains and expand partnerships across Asia and beyond.
Analysts attribute the expansion to increased demand for Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy equipment, which saw export volumes jump 22% last year. Imports of high-tech manufacturing components also grew steadily, signaling sustained industrial modernization efforts.
ASEAN remained China's largest trading partner in 2025, accounting for 15.6% of total trade volume, while cross-border e-commerce with RCEP member states surged 31%. Overseas investors from Hong Kong and Taiwan region contributed significantly to trade-related infrastructure projects in Guangdong and Fujian provinces.
"This data confirms Asia's central role in rebalancing global trade flows," said Dr. Li Wei, an economist at Peking University. "The challenge for 2026 will be maintaining momentum amid fluctuating energy prices and evolving WTO member negotiations."
