Addis Ababa, Jan 14/01/2026 (ABN)
China has recorded a historic trade surplus in 2025, with the country’s surplus nearing USD 1.2 trillion, marking an all-time high, according to international reports.
The milestone was achieved amid heightened global trade tensions, particularly during a period when former U.S. President Donald Trump imposed increased tariffs on Chinese goods. Despite these challenges, China’s export performance remained strong.
Data show that China’s exports grew by 5.5 percent over the past year, reaching USD 3.77 trillion. In contrast, imports largely stagnated, enabling the country to secure a trade surplus of approximately USD 1.19 trillion.
While Chinese exports to the United States declined by 20 percent, the country successfully offset the drop by expanding shipments to other regions. Exports to Africa increased by 26 percent, to Southeast Asian countries by 13 percent, and to the European Union by 8 percent, reflecting China’s growing trade diversification.
The surge in exports was driven largely by rising global demand for computer chips, electronic equipment, and electric vehicles, sectors that continue to strengthen China’s position in advanced manufacturing and green technology.
Measured against global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), China’s current trade surplus stands at one of the highest levels worldwide, a development analysts warn could further intensify trade frictions with the United States and Europe.
