China's foreign trade reached a record RMB45.5 trillion (US$6.5 trillion) in 2025, reported Caixin. Growth was driven by mechanical and electrical exports, which for the first time accounted for more than 60 per cent of outbound shipments.

Customs figures showed combined imports and exports rose 3.8 per cent last year, marking nine straight years of expansion. Exports of mechanical and electrical goods increased 9 per cent, highlighting China's move toward higher-value manufacturing despite external pressures.

In dollar terms, mechanical and electrical exports totalled US$2.3 trillion in 2025, while imports stood at $1.03 trillion. That produced a $1.27 trillion surplus, exceeding China's overall trade surplus of $1.19 trillion. Products included automobiles, integrated circuits, ships and other advanced goods.