China’s exports to the United States saw a sharp decline of 27% in September compared to the same period last year. Yet, despite ongoing tensions with Washington, China’s global export performance hit a six-month high, signaling both resilience and strategic market diversification.
According to data released by China’s Customs Department on Monday, global exports rose 8.3% year-on-year, reaching USD 328.5 billion, exceeding economists’ expectations and marking a strong recovery from the 4.4% growth in August. Imports also reflected renewed momentum, growing 7.4%—a marked improvement from the modest 1.3% growth recorded in August.
Still, domestic challenges persist. A sluggish real estate market and weakened consumer confidence continue to weigh on China’s internal demand. Meanwhile, exports to the US have been declining for six consecutive months, dropping 33% in August alone, largely due to policy shifts and trade barriers.
As trade tensions between Beijing and Washington intensify—with new tariffs, port fees, and export controls—China has been proactively exploring new markets. Shipments to Southeast Asia jumped 15.6%, while exports to Latin America and Africa surged 15% and 56% respectively, showcasing a deliberate pivot toward emerging economies.
Wang Jun, vice minister of China’s customs agency, cautioned that “the external environment is still severe and complicated,” emphasizing the need to stabilize trade in the final quarter of the year. Economists like Gary Ng of Natixis noted China’s “resilience given low costs and limited global alternatives,” but warned that export controls and supply chain disruptions could have lasting effects.
The renewed friction follows threats from former US President Donald Trump of a 100% tariff on Chinese goods, and reciprocal measures from Beijing, including new port fees on American vessels and extended controls on lithium-ion batteries and rare earth exports. Such developments could jeopardize diplomatic progress and complicate efforts for a much-anticipated meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this month.
At its core, this moment underscores a profound global truth: the world’s economies are intertwined, yet divided by policy and politics. Despite the storm, China’s trade story reflects adaptability, strategy, and the relentless pursuit of balance in an unpredictable global economy.
