China recorded a surprising 12.4% jump in exports in March 2025, as businesses scrambled to ship goods before a new wave of U.S tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump takes effect.
The sharp rise beat market forecasts and showcased the resilience of China's export sector, even as tensions with Washington continue to escalate.
Despite the strong export performance, China's imports dropped by 4.3% during the same month, reflecting the unstable nature of global trade.
Over the first quarter of the year, exports rose by 5.8%, while imports fell by 7%, signaling a mixed outlook for the world's second-largest economy.
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Trade with the United States remained a focal point. In March alone, China posted a $27.6 billion trade surplus with the U.S., boosted by a 4.5% increase in exports.
For the entire quarter, the trade surplus reached a notable $76.6 billion. The figures underline how, even amid friction, American demand for Chinese goods remains significant.
At the same time, China is expanding its trade relationships within Asia. Vietnam, in particular, emerged as a key partner, with Chinese exports to the country rising by 17% in March. Although imports from Vietnam dipped slightly by 2.7%, the growing trade bond between the two nations is becoming increasingly important.
This shift comes as China seeks to reinforce regional ties to offset the challenges posed by its strained relationship with the U.S.
Adding to this effort, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Vietnam this week, with stops also planned in Malaysia and Cambodia.
While the diplomatic trip was likely scheduled in advance, it has taken on added significance in light of the growing geopolitical tension. Strengthening economic cooperation with Southeast Asian neighbors is now a central part of China's strategy to navigate the uncertain global trade landscape.
Meanwhile, the United States recently announced a 90-day delay in the enforcement of the new tariffs, buying some time for businesses to adjust. Still, companies across Asia, including in China, are bracing for the impact.
Interestingly, the Trump administration excluded certain products—such as smartphones, laptops, and computer components—from the tariffs. These items, rarely manufactured in the U.S., are essential to the global tech supply chain, and their exemption is expected to benefit electronics makers and consumers alike.
Despite external pressures, Chinese officials remain cautiously optimistic. Lyu Daliang, a spokesperson for China's customs authority, acknowledged the current environment as "complex and severe," but insisted that China's economy is stable and capable of weathering challenges. "The sky will not fall," he said, expressing confidence in the country's long-term growth.
Lyu also highlighted China's continued importance in the global economy. For 16 straight years, China has been the world's second-largest importer, with its share of global imports rising from 8% to 10.5%.
He emphasized that China's large domestic market offers growing opportunities for international businesses, despite ongoing tensions.
In the face of mounting trade challenges and shifting alliances, China's latest export figures reveal a country both adapting to pressure and exploring new pathways for economic growth.
