Data shows that in the first quarter of 2026, China's imports and exports increased by 15.3% year-on-year, 18.3% in the second quarter, and further increased to 22.3% in the third quarter. From a monthly perspective, it has maintained a double-digit growth rate for six consecutive months. In September, imports and exports reached 5.16 trillion yuan, breaking through 5 trillion yuan for the first time, with a year-on-year increase of 27.5%.

Vertically speaking, the growth rate of foreign trade in the first three quarters was the fastest in the same period of the past five years, and the quarterly and monthly growth rates also showed an overall acceleration trend. Horizontally speaking, the latest international data shows that this trade growth rate ranks among the top in major economies, and China continues to maintain its position as the world's largest country in goods trade, "said Wang Jun, Deputy Director of the General Administration of Customs, at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office on the same day.

While China's imports and exports continue to grow rapidly, the market is diversifying, consolidating and expanding, and the development momentum is moving towards new and optimal directions. In the first three quarters, China achieved growth in trade with over 180 countries and regions worldwide. The import and export of free trade partners reached 1.955 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 30%, contributing over 70% of the foreign trade increment. Export products are shifting towards smart and green industries, with integrated circuit exports increasing by 99.1%. Green products such as electric vehicles, lithium batteries, wind turbines, and their components have increased by 72.3%, 36.4%, and 22.4%, respectively.

Overall, in the first three quarters, China's foreign trade effectively responded to various external shocks and challenges, maintaining a good development momentum, "said Wang Jun. Despite the current international situation being chaotic and intertwined, and various risks and challenges emerging one after another, the driving force and vitality of China's foreign trade development have been strengthened, and resilience has been demonstrated. The sustained growth of imports and exports in the fourth quarter has a foundation and support.

Source: Xinhua News Agency

Editor/Yang Meiling