ECONOMY

China Exports Jump 21.8% in Strong Start to 2026

Published: Mar. 10, 2026 3:16 p.m. GMT+8

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China’s exports surged at the start of this year, far exceeding market expectations and pointing to stronger external demand.

Outbound shipments rose 21.8% year-on-year in the first two months in dollar terms, data released Tuesday by the General Administration of Customs showed. The pace accelerated sharply from 10% growth for 2025 overall.

Imports climbed 19.8% after posting zero growth last year. China’s trade surplus widened to $213.6 billion, up 26.2% year-on-year.

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China's exports rose 21.8% year-on-year in the first two months, far above forecasts; imports climbed 19.8%.
Trade surplus reached $213.6 billion, up 26.2% year-on-year; economists had expected $151.1 billion.
Exports to ASEAN (+29.4%), EU (+27.8%), and Russia (+22.7%) grew, while exports to the U.S. fell 11%.

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