By Miriam Humbe
China’s foreign trade grew 16.9% YoY in the first half of 2026, according to data released from the General Administration of Customs (GAC) on Tuesday.
The total value of goods imports and exports reached 25.47 trillion yuan (about $3.75 trillion) during the period, surpassing 25 trillion yuan for the first time.
Of this total, exports amounted to 14.73 trillion yuan, up 13.4% YoY, while imports totaled 10.74 trillion yuan, rising 22.1% YoY.
Exports totaled $2.1 trillion, while imports rose to $1.5 trillion, maintaining China’s position as the world’s largest goods trader despite lingering global tariff uncertainties.
CGTN reports that the structure of China’s foreign trade is shifting toward high-tech manufacturing, with significant surges in mechanical and electrical products, electric vehicles, robotics, and artificial intelligence-related equipment.
Trade with Belt and Road partner countries accounted for more than half of the total volume.
Key Trade Metrics (H1 2026)
Total Trade Volume: 25.47 trillion yuan ($3.75 trillion).Export Growth: Rose by 13.4% to $2.1 trillion.
Import Growth: Increased by 22.1% to $1.5 trillion, which promoted more balanced trade development.
Automotive Sector: Car exports surged dramatically, with monthly vehicle shipments topping 1 million in June.
AI & Tech Boom: Exports of mechanical and electrical products drove growth, while tech exports benefited heavily from the global artificial intelligence boom.
Current Global Trade Dynamics
Despite ongoing tariff disputes and historical tariffs on Chinese goods, China’s overseas shipments accelerated in June with a 27% year-on-year jump.
The European Union remains one of China’s largest destinations, where a massive goods trade surplus has generated tension and policy debates. Meanwhile, trade with Belt and Road partner countries continues to account for over half of China’s total volume.
