China’s exports grew faster than expected in April, as overseas buyers moved quickly to secure supplies amid fears that the conflict involving Iran could drive up global energy and transport costs.
Official customs data released on Saturday showed exports rose by 14.1 per cent year on year in dollar terms, accelerating sharply from growth of 2.5 per cent in March.
Imports remained strong, climbing 25.3 per cent in April, pointing to resilient domestic demand for raw materials and components. As a result, China’s trade surplus widened to 84.8 billion dollars, up from 51.1 billion dollars the previous month.
Economists said the figures suggest exporters benefited from a wave of front‑loaded overseas orders, as companies sought to stockpile goods and parts ahead of potential cost increases linked to instability in the Middle East.
Recent factory surveys showed new export orders reached their highest level in two years, highlighting the strength of demand in recent months. However, analysts cautioned that this momentum may not last.
Despite gross domestic product growth of 5 per cent in the first quarter, prolonged geopolitical tensions and higher energy prices could weaken global demand later in the year, adding pressure to China’s already subdued consumer spending.
Attention is also turning to diplomacy, with U.S. President Donald Trump expected to visit China next week for talks with President Xi Jinping.
The discussions are likely to centre on trade relations, as well as cooperation in agriculture and the aviation sector, at a time when global supply chains remain sensitive to political and economic shocks.
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