China posts record $1.2T trade surplus in 2025

China recorded the world’s largest-ever trade surplus in 2025, reaching $1.2 trillion as exporters shifted focus away from the U.S. amid ongoing trade tensions.

The surplus, up 20% from 2024, reflects Beijing’s pivot toward emerging markets in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America as exports to the U.S. fell 19.5% year-on-year.

Customs data showed total exports at $3.7 trillion and imports at $2.58 trillion. December alone saw a 6.6% increase in exports compared with the same month in 2024, surpassing economists’ expectations.

High-tech goods such as industrial robots and machine tools rose 13%, while electric vehicles, lithium batteries, and solar panels jumped 27%. Exports to Africa increased 26.5%, ASEAN 14%, the EU 9%, and Latin America 8%.

Despite rising tensions and tariffs with the U.S., China expanded into other global markets, strengthening its economic footprint and resilience. Officials say strong exports give Beijing confidence in trade negotiations with Washington and other partners.

Deputy Customs Administrator Wang Jun said the country will “open more” in 2026, signaling continued reliance on exports to drive growth amid sluggish domestic demand. Economists expect China’s trade surplus to remain above $1 trillion this year, though export growth may slow slightly.

The record surplus is likely to raise concerns among trading partners about dependence on Chinese goods and the impact on domestic industries.

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