China Says Trade Hit Record High in 2025 Despite Decline in U.S. Exports

China has announced that its total trade activities reached an unprecedented level in 2025, even as shipments to the United States weakened following increased tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Speaking at a press briefing in Beijing on Wednesday, China’s Vice Minister of Customs, Wang Jun, disclosed that the country’s overall trade value exceeded 45 trillion yuan, equivalent to approximately $6.4 trillion, marking the highest level ever recorded in China’s trading history.

According to official customs figures, exports continued to play a crucial role in sustaining China’s economy, growing by 6.1 percent in 2025 compared to the previous year. This performance highlights the resilience of Chinese manufacturing and export-oriented industries amid changing global trade conditions.

On the import side, China recorded a more modest increase, with inbound goods rising by 0.5 percent over the same period. While growth in imports remained relatively slow, officials attributed this partly to restrictions imposed by certain countries.

Wang Jun suggested that political interference had affected trade flows, noting that limitations on high-technology exports to China reduced the volume of goods the country would otherwise have imported. Although he did not directly name the United States, his remarks were widely interpreted as a reference to U.S. trade policies and tariff measures introduced during Donald Trump’s administration.

Despite these challenges, Chinese authorities remain optimistic about the future. Looking ahead to 2026, Wang emphasized that China plans to further expand market access and maintain its role as a major driver of global trade. He stated that China would continue to present significant opportunities for international businesses and trading partners worldwide.

The announcement reinforces China’s position as a key player in global commerce, demonstrating its ability to adapt to external pressures while sustaining long-term economic engagement with the international market.