China's goods trade reaches 39.94 trillion yuan in the first three quarters, customs data show

14 October 2026

China's goods trade in the first three quarters of the year came to 39.94 trillion yuan, about 5.94 trillion US dollars, 18.8 per cent higher than a year earlier. Exports were 23.2 trillion yuan, up 16.4 per cent, and imports 16.74 trillion yuan, up 22.3 per cent, so imports grew faster than exports. The General Administration of Customs is the body that compiles these figures. Growth quickened through the year: total trade rose 15.3 per cent in the first quarter, 18.3 per cent in the second and 22.3 per cent in the third. Trade with free trade agreement partners was 19.55 trillion yuan, up 30 per cent, and trade with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations was 6.84 trillion yuan, up 22.7 per cent. Trade with the European Union was 4.78 trillion yuan, up 8.4 per cent, while trade with the United States was 3.18 trillion yuan, up 4.1 per cent.