China diversifies export markets beyond US

China is expanding its export markets beyond the United States, with stronger overseas demand and market diversification helping offset declining shipments to the US amid persistent trade tensions.

Chinese exports to the US fell 19.5 per cent in 2025 to around $420 billion, while total exports rose 6.1 per cent to approximately $3.77 trillion, according to customs data cited by Anadolu Agency. 

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the European Union have emerged as key alternative markets. China's exports to ASEAN increased 14 per cent to around $665 billion in 2025, while shipments to the EU rose 9 per cent to approximately $560 billion.

The expansion of trade with other destinations has helped China sustain export growth despite weaker sales to the US, reflecting a broader diversification of its overseas markets.

China's export momentum has continued in 2026. In the first nine months, exports rose 16.4 per cent year-on-year to 23.2 trillion yuan, while total foreign trade increased 18.8 per cent to 39.94 trillion yuan, according to China's General Administration of Customs. 

High-value and technology-intensive products have supported the growth, with exports of integrated circuits surging 99.1 per cent and electric vehicles rising 72.3 per cent in the January-September period.