China’s Exports Jump as AI Boom Fuels Trade Growth

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Shivangi

Jul 14, 2026 5:43 PM IST

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Synopsis

June exports rose at the fastest pace in nearly five years, while imports also posted strong gains despite a sharp drop in crude oil purchases.

Chinese exports in June climbed 27% on the year, the strongest increase since October of 2021, after firms rushed to ship goods ahead of two key business outcomes, higher US tariffs and escalating demand for AI hardware.

Export growth accelerated from 19.4% in May and beat an economists’ forecast of 18.2%, the customs data showed.

For the first half of this year, China reported fastest-growing export categories such as semiconductors, rare earths and automobiles & ships for weaker growth on toys, footwear steel and furniture.

Trade Surplus at $125.6 Billion as Imports Jump

Imports increased 36% in June from 27.4% in May, beating economist forecasts for 24% growth. The nation ended with a $125.6 billion trade surplus. Weakness continued in other categories, reflecting weak domestic demand while imports like exports were dominated by high-tech products.

Trade to US, EU and ASEAN

China’s exports to the US rose by 14% in June while imports from the US were up 26%. Exports to the European Union increased by 18.5% to 35%. Imports from the EU grew by 9% and 27%

Manufacturers bid for new tariffs from US President, Donald Trump’s 301 probes as the 10% current US tariff ends on July 24.

Oil Imports Ahead of GDP 

In June, China’s crude oil imports fell to 29.3 million tonnes, also down its lowest level in nearly a decade and dropped 41% on year. Overall oil imports fell 11% in the first half of this year.

China will release second quarter GDP, as well as industrial output and retail sales data on Wednesday with investors eyeing signs of what economic stimulus measures could be taken following a Politburo meeting later this month.

Sources: cnbc