China's foreign trade demonstrated remarkable resilience and structural improvement in the first half of 2025, achieving three major historic milestones despite a complex global economic landscape, official data shows. Private enterprises have solidified their role as the central pillar of this growth, driving exports with innovation and enhanced competitiveness.
According to the General Administration of Customs, the total value of China's goods trade reached 21.79 trillion yuan in the first six months, setting a new record for the period. This performance was anchored by three unprecedented achievements, as summarized below:
| Milestone | Key Data (H1 2025) | Significance & Source |
| 1. Export Scale | 13 trillion yuan (up 7.2% year-on-year) | First time H1 exports exceeded 13 trillion yuan |
| 2. Active Foreign Trade Enterprises | 628,000 enterprises with actual import/export performance | First time the number of active firms surpassed 600,000 in H1 |
| 3. Private Enterprise Scale | 12.48 trillion yuan in total trade | First time private firms' H1 trade value exceeded 12 trillion yuan |
Private Enterprises: The Engine of Growth and Innovation
Private firms were the undisputed powerhouse behind the trade expansion. Their import and export volume grew by 7.3%, significantly outperforming the national average and contributing 57.3% of the total foreign trade value. This marks the 21st consecutive quarter of year-on-year growth for the sector.
More importantly, private enterprises are leading the upgrade in export quality. They are responsible for 54.2% of China's high-tech product exports, with the value of such exports surging 12.5% year-on-year. From industrial robots to new energy vehicles, private companies are at the forefront of moving Chinese manufacturing up the global value chain.
High-Tech and Green Products: The New Driving Force
The product mix is shifting towards higher value. Exports of high-tech products increased by 9.2%, maintaining growth for nine consecutive months. Within this category, high-end equipment related to new quality productive forces saw growth of over 20%.
The "New Three" green products—representing the green transition—also maintained strong momentum with growth of 12.7%. Notably, the export of industrial robots skyrocketed by 61.5%, reflecting the global competitiveness of China's advanced manufacturing.
Navigating Challenges with a Diversified Strategy
Growth was supported by a diversified global market strategy. While trade with traditional partners like the EU remained stable, emerging markets provided significant impetus. Trade with ASEAN, China's largest partner, grew by 9.6%. Meanwhile, exports to Africa and Central Asia saw double-digit growth.
Post time: Dec-30-2025
