China posts record $1.2 trillion trade surplus despite US tariffs
China’s trade surplus reached a record $1.2 trillion in 2025, even as exports to the United States fell sharply following new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. Other trading partners, including the ASEAN group and Africa, helped boost overall exports. Vice customs minister Wang Jun highlighted that China’s total trade surpassed 45 trillion yuan ($6.4 trillion) for the first time. Trade tensions with the European Union showed signs of easing, with new price undertakings for Chinese electric vehicle makers.
What we know
- China’s trade surplus rose to a record $1.2 trillion in 2025, despite a 20 per cent drop in exports to the United States.
- Shipments to the ASEAN group increased by 13.4 per cent year-on-year, and exports to Africa grew by 25.8 per cent.
- Exports to the European Union rose by 8.4 per cent, though imports from the bloc declined.
- Trade tensions with the EU eased on Monday as Brussels allowed Chinese electric vehicle makers to offer price undertakings instead of facing tariffs.
- Vice customs minister Wang Jun stated that China’s trade in 2025 surpassed 45 trillion yuan ($6.4 trillion) for the first time.
