China’s exports rose 36.3% in September from a year earlier, exceeding forecasts, while imports grew 31%. The data comes as trading partners, including the European Union, pressure Beijing to rebalance trade.
China’s exports surged 36.3% in September from a year earlier, according to data released by the country’s customs agency on Wednesday. The figure exceeded economists' expectations and accelerated from the 25% growth recorded in August.
The strong export performance was driven in part by high-tech goods, including semiconductors and autos, which helped fuel rising shipments overseas. Imports also saw significant growth, climbing 31% in September year-on-year. This import growth also accelerated from August’s 28.2% rise.
A Reuters poll of economists had forecast that exports would rise 25.5% year-on-year. Import growth was estimated to have slowed to 24.5% from the previous month, but the actual data showed a stronger increase.
The disparity between export and import growth resulted in a $133.5 billion trade surplus for China in September. This represents a widening from the $119.1 billion surplus recorded in August.
The release of the data coincides with increasing pressure from China’s trading partners to rebalance trade. The European Union has been among those calling for adjustments to trade dynamics. In a meeting in Beijing on Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met with European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic, as reported by the Xinhua News Agency.
The significant surge in exports and the widening trade surplus highlight the continued momentum of China’s external trade sector. However, the data also underscores the growing tension with international partners who are seeking to address trade imbalances. The performance of high-tech sectors like semiconductors and autos remains a key driver of this growth, even as global economic conditions and diplomatic relations evolve.
Sources
This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.
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