China’s exports saw a significant surge of 12.4% in March compared to the previous year, as companies scrambled to avoid upcoming increases in US tariffs imposed during Donald Trump’s presidency.
At the same time, China’s imports fell by 4.3%, according to the latest figures from the government’s customs administration. The country’s overall exports rose 5.8% in the first quarter, while imports dropped by 7%. China’s trade surplus with the United States reached $27.6 billion in March, with a quarterly surplus of $76.6 billion.
The US continues to impose hefty tariffs, with many Chinese goods facing up to 145% tariffs under Trump’s revised trade policies. Despite this, China’s exports to its Southeast Asian neighbors and Africa saw impressive growth, rising by nearly 17% and over 11%, respectively.
The data comes amid a critical time for China as President Xi Jinping embarks on a regional tour to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia, seeking to strengthen trade ties with countries facing similar trade barriers. China’s exports to Vietnam alone rose nearly 17% in March.
