China’s exports surge despite trade tensions with the US

China’s exports: Strong global demand for electronics and manufactured goods drives China’s exports, even as shipments to the United States decline.

China’s exports surged dramatically in the first two months of the year, highlighting the resilience of the country’s trade sector despite ongoing tensions with the United States.

Official data released by the government in China shows exports jumped by more than 20% in January and February combined — nearly three times higher than economists had predicted. The sharp increase puts the country on course to surpass the record trade surplus it achieved in 2025.

The announcement comes ahead of a planned meeting between Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, who are expected to meet in early April to discuss economic and geopolitical issues affecting both nations.

China’s exports: Export growth defies economic challenges

The export surge is particularly significant as China continues to grapple with several domestic economic challenges. These include weak consumer spending, a shrinking population and a prolonged crisis in the country’s property market.

Despite these issues, exports have remained a crucial driver of growth for the world’s second-largest economy.

To provide a clearer picture of trade trends, Chinese authorities typically combine January and February data because the timing of the Chinese Lunar New Year changes each year and can distort monthly figures.

Electronics and manufacturing lead the surge

The strong export performance was largely driven by global demand for electronics. Shipments of agricultural products and manufactured goods also recorded significant increases during the same period.

Trade with European countries expanded rapidly, rising by nearly 27.8%. Exports to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) — which includes countries such as Thailand, Singapore and the Philippines — climbed by almost 30%.

However, trade with the United States moved in the opposite direction. Chinese exports to the US fell by more than 10%, largely due to tariffs and other trade restrictions introduced by the American government.

Lower growth targets ahead

Last week, China set a new economic growth target of between 4.5% and 5% for the year — slightly lower than the 5% target set in 2025. The previous year’s goal was largely achieved due to strong export performance.

Economists say this demonstrates how heavily the Chinese economy still relies on overseas demand to maintain growth.

Global tensions add uncertainty

The upcoming meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping takes place at a time of broader geopolitical uncertainty.

Many Asian economies, including China, are dealing with the economic consequences of the US–Israel–Iran conflict, which has disrupted global energy markets and contributed to economic instability worldwide.

Analysts say the outcome of the meeting could influence future trade relations between the two countries and shape the direction of global commerce in the months ahead.

Source: BBC.com

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