China's foreign trade grew 18.8% in the first three quarters

China's goods trade grew 18.8% year on year in the first three quarters of 2026, and September imports and exports together topped 5 trillion yuan for the first time.

The figures cover trade in goods, including manufactured products, raw materials and consumer goods.

Imports grew faster than exports, rising 22.3% as China's large domestic market drew in more goods from abroad.

Exports of electric vehicles, lithium batteries and wind power equipment also increased, while integrated-circuit exports nearly doubled.

Trade grew with more than 180 countries and regions, and trade with China's free-trade partners rose 30%.

The growth reflects expanding high-tech and green industries, as well as upgrades to traditional manufacturing.

China plans to keep widening trade links through more open policies, improved transport routes and efforts to reach a wider range of markets, though the international environment remains uncertain.