China posts record $1.2 trillion trade surplus in 2025 amid shifting export markets

China recorded its largest ever trade surplus last year, reaching almost $1.2 trillion, as exports rose 6.1% to $3.8 trillion while imports grew only 0.5% to $2.6 trillion. The surplus was driven by stronger sales to emerging markets in Southeast Asia, Africa and Latin America, offsetting a 28% drop in shipments to the United States amid ongoing tariff disputes. Vice‑minister Wang Jun said the diversification of trade partners has increased China’s ability to resist risks, and a weak yuan helped boost the surplus. Chinese stocks rose after the data were released, with the Shanghai Composite hitting its highest level in more than a decade.

Across the continent, Asian nations exported a total of $10 trillion in 2025, representing 39% of global export value. Mainland China led the region with $3.776 trillion in exports (37.8% of Asian total), followed by Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea. The growth of Asian exports underscores the region’s expanding role in world trade despite geopolitical tensions.