China delivered better-than-expected trade results in July 2025. According to CNBC, exports climbed 7.2% in July compared to the same month last year. This performance exceeded Reuters-polled economists' estimates of 5.4% growth.

Imports rose 4.1% last month from a year earlier. This represents the biggest jump since July 2024. Economists had forecast imports would fall 1.0% according to Reuters polling. China's trade surplus reached $98.24 billion in July 2025.

The General Administration of Customs released the official data Thursday morning. Year-to-date exports jumped 6.1% from 2024 levels through July. Imports fell 2.7% during the same seven-month period. China's accumulated trade surplus reached $683.5 billion, showing 32% growth compared to 2024.

Why These Numbers Matter Right Now

The July performance comes during heightened trade tensions with the United States. Chinese exports to America dropped 21.7% year-over-year in July. This decline extended a four-month streak of reduced shipments to the US market.

However, China successfully redirected trade flows to other regions. Macao News reports that exports to Southeast Asian nations surged 16.6% year-over-year. Shipments to the European Union rose 9.2% during the same period.

The 90-day trade truce between Washington and Beijing expires August 12. No permanent agreement has been reached yet. Current negotiations remain fragile with significant policy uncertainty ahead. China's ability to maintain export growth despite US trade restrictions demonstrates economic resilience.

Global Trade Context and Industry Response

China's performance occurs within broader global trade patterns this year. UNCTAD reported that global trade grew $300 billion in the first half of 2025. This growth was led primarily by US imports and European Union exports.

Trade imbalances have deepened during the past four quarters. The United States posted a larger deficit while China recorded growing surpluses. Bilateral gaps widened between America and key partners including China's $360 billion annual deficit position.

Global Times data shows China's total trade with Belt and Road countries reached 13.29 trillion yuan. This represented 5.5% growth during the first seven months. Mechanical and electrical products accounted for about 60% of China's total exports.

Economists remain cautious about sustainability. Some analysts attribute recent export growth to front-loading behavior by manufacturers. Companies may be rushing shipments before potential new tariffs take effect. The question remains whether this momentum can continue through the second half of 2025.

Further Reading

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