China’s foreign trade surges 15% in Q1, marking fastest growth in five years

China’s foreign trade recorded a robust start to 2026, with total imports and exports reaching approximately US$1.63 trillion in the first quarter, representing a 15 per cent year-on-year increase and the fastest quarterly growth in nearly five years, reports CGTN, a partner of TV BRICS.

Wang Jun, Deputy Head of China's General Administration of Customs, stated that the data indicate a solid and positive start to the year, reflecting the resilience and vitality of China’s foreign trade.

Exports rose by 11.9 per cent compared with the same period last year, while imports grew at a faster pace of 19.6 per cent. The stronger expansion in imports underscores the country’s increasing domestic demand and its role in supporting global supply chains.

Private enterprises continued to serve as the primary engine of trade growth. Their combined imports and exports increased by 16.2 per cent year on year, accounting for 57.3 per cent of China’s total foreign trade.

Foreign-invested enterprises also maintained steady momentum, posting an increase of 16.1 per cent compared with the previous year. This marks the eighth consecutive quarter of growth, signalling sustained confidence among international investors in China’s market.

Commerce with countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative rose by 14.2 per cent year on year, accounting for 51.2 per cent of the nation’s total trade. Meanwhile, exchanges with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and Latin American partners both expanded by 15.4 per cent, reflecting broader geographical engagement.