China’s trade surplus nears $1 trillion

China's trade surplus exceeded $938 billion in the first nine months of 2026, putting the world's second-largest economy on course to surpass the $1 trillion mark for the second consecutive year as exports surged 36.3 per cent in September.

According to data released by China's customs authorities, exports grew 36.3 per cent year-on-year in September, up from 25 per cent in August and well above economists' forecast of 25.5 per cent. The growth rate was the highest since February.

Strong global demand for semiconductors and green technology products has helped boost export orders and sustain factory production, analysts said.

Imports also rose sharply, climbing 31 per cent year-on-year in September, compared with 28.2 per cent in August and exceeding the forecast of 24.5 per cent.

Chinese Customs Vice Minister Wang Jun warned that geopolitical conflicts and international uncertainties could affect trade, but said the country retained a strong foundation and favourable conditions for trade growth in the fourth quarter.