China had a record $1.2 trillion trade surplus in 2025, as exports rose 6.6% in December
Summary
China's trade surplus hit a record $1.2 trillion in 2025 as exports rose 6.6% in December, driven by strong demand from global markets despite falling exports to the U.S.
Key Points
- China's trade surplus reached a record $1.2 trillion in 2025, surpassing $1 trillion for the first time in November.
- Exports rose 5.5% in 2025 to $3.77 trillion, supported by growth in markets outside the U.S., including Africa, Southeast Asia, and Europe.
- Imports remained flat at $2.58 trillion in 2025, with moderate growth in December.
- Economists expect exports to continue supporting China's economic growth in 2026 despite global trade challenges.
