China exports delivered a surprise boost in March, surging 12.4% year-on-year as companies scrambled to ship goods ahead of a new wave of U.S. tariffs. The export spike defied market expectations and highlighted the country’s resilience in the face of escalating trade tensions.
According to official data released Monday, the surge was driven by exporters accelerating shipments to beat the clock on steep tariff hikes, notably the recently revised U.S. trade policies that now impose tariffs of up to 145% on certain Chinese imports.
Imports, however, painted a contrasting picture, dropping 4.3% in March as volatile global conditions and domestic economic adjustments weighed on inbound trade.
In the first quarter of 2025, China’s exports rose 5.8% while imports declined 7%, resulting in a robust trade surplus. Notably, China’s trade balance with the United States hit $27.6 billion in March alone, with quarterly surplus figures reaching $76.6 billion.
Chinese exporters are increasingly pivoting towards alternative markets, a trend that gained momentum in March. Exports to Southeast Asia jumped nearly 17% year-on-year, with Vietnam emerging as a significant partner despite a slight dip of 2.7% in imports from the country. African markets also saw over 11% growth in Chinese exports.
Though President Xi Jinping’s Asian tour with visits to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia were said to have been pre-arranged, the timing was meant to drive home China’s determination to expand economic relations in Asia amidst increased pressure from the West.
Commenting on the trade figures, Chinese customs spokesperson Lyu Daliang acknowledged the complex global landscape but struck an optimistic tone. “China is facing a complex and severe external situation,” Lyu said, “but the sky will not fall.” He emphasised that China has remained the world’s second-largest importer for 16 consecutive years, with its share of global imports climbing from 8% to 10.5%.
Lyu added, “The large Chinese market is always a great opportunity for the world,” noting that the scope for import growth remains substantial. Despite ongoing global challenges and the threat of new U.S. tariffs, China’s strong export performance in March highlights how the country is adjusting its trade strategy to stay competitive.
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