China’s global trade reached an all-time high in 2025, buoyed by a robust private sector and a strategic shift toward green technology. Data released Wednesday by the General Administration of Customs reveals that total goods trade encompassing both imports and exports rose to 45.47 trillion yuan ($6.35 trillion), a 3.8 percent increase from the previous year.
China maintains its status as the world’s largest goods trader, with exports climbing 6.1 percent to 26.99 trillion yuan and imports edging up 0.5 percent to 18.48 trillion yuan.
Private Enterprises and Green Tech Lead the Charge
The year was defined by the dominance of private firms, which now account for 57.3 percent of China’s total trade. Over 780,000 companies participated in foreign trade last year, with private enterprises recording 26.04 trillion yuan in trade a 7.1 percent growth rate that outpaced the national average.
The composition of exports also evolved toward high-value, sustainable products. Shipments of high-tech goods grew by 13.2 percent, while the “three major green products” electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and solar panels saw a combined jump of 27.1 percent. Wind power equipment exports experienced the most dramatic surge, rising by 48.7 percent.
Market Diversification and Import Recovery
China’s trade network now spans over 240 countries and regions. A pivotal shift occurred as trade with Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) partners rose 6.3 percent, representing 51.9 percent of China’s total trade volume.
On the import side, despite declining global prices, China saw a recovery with three consecutive quarters of growth starting from Q2. Notable increases were seen in mechanical and electrical products, particularly electronic components and computer parts, which rose by 9.7 percent and 20 percent, respectively.
China-Africa Trade Relations: A Strategic Expansion
Trade between China and Africa emerged as a standout performer in 2025, reflecting a significant deepening of economic ties under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). According to official data, trade with Africa climbed by 18.4 percent the highest growth rate among all major regional trading blocs reaching 2.49 trillion yuan.
This surge highlights Africa’s growing importance in China’s diversified market structure. As China prioritizes high-tech and green exports, African markets have become key destinations for Chinese-made mechanical and electrical products, while China’s sustained demand for resources and specialized components continues to drive imports from the continent.
