China’s foreign trade is expected to gain further momentum in 2025 as exporters focus on technology-intensive products and diversify into emerging markets, according to officials and industry leaders.
Data from the General Administration of Customs showed that total trade rose 3.5 percent year-on-year in the first eight months of 2025, reaching 29.57 trillion yuan ($4.14 trillion). Exports climbed 6.9 percent to 17.61 trillion yuan, while imports slipped 1.2 percent to 11.96 trillion yuan. Both imports and exports grew for a third straight month in August.
Officials highlighted that private enterprises are playing a greater role, accounting for nearly half of high-tech exports and strengthening innovation in manufacturing. Exports of mechanical and electrical products hit 10.6 trillion yuan between January and August, up 9.2 percent year-on-year and representing over 60 percent of total exports.
China’s trade with the European Union rose 4.3 percent year-on-year to 3.88 trillion yuan, while Belt and Road Initiative partners saw a 5.4 percent increase to 15.3 trillion yuan. Companies such as Ningbo Weiyun Electronic are expanding into Southeast Asia and Europe, signaling the broader shift toward diversified global markets. Experts noted that growing Chinese engagement in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa is also opening opportunities for international partners to expand through triangular cooperation.