China’s exports jumped 12.4% in March, exceeding expectations, as businesses rushed to ship goods before US tariffs took effect. Imports fell 4.3% from a year earlier, marking the sharpest decline since mid-2023. The surge in exports was driven by US companies frontloading shipments to avoid higher tariffs.
The Chinese government has set an ambitious annual growth target of around 5%, but the prospects of an escalating trade war and weakening domestic demand make this goal harder to achieve. Experts predict further weakness in exports as the US imposes even more tariffs, which could drive up inflation and disrupt supply chains.
Trade tensions between China and the US remain high, with Beijing striking back at Washington’s tariffs with its own retaliatory measures. The Chinese leadership has called for negotiations with the US, but the trade war continues to pressure businesses and consumers alike.
China’s exports to major markets like the US, EU, and ASEAN also showed resilience, with growth rates ranging from 9.1% to 11.6%. However, imports of key commodities like iron ore, soybeans, and semiconductors fell sharply, highlighting the impact of trade tensions on global supply chains.
As pressure builds on Chinese officials to release more stimulus measures to boost domestic consumption and reduce reliance on exports, experts warn that the trade war could lead to a recession. With China’s GDP growth forecasted to slow, policymakers will likely unveil new measures to counter the negative effects of the tariffs at their upcoming high-level meeting later this month.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/14/china-exports-skyrocket-over-12percent-in-march-while-imports-extend-declines-official-data-shows.html