China’s exports and imports beat expectations in December, with exports growing 10.7% in U.S. dollar terms and imports rising 1.0%, reversing the decline seen in previous months.
The country’s reliance on exports has grown due to a prolonged real estate crisis, which has hit domestic demand. However, economists say potential tariff hikes could dampen momentum, particularly if the US imposes additional tariffs on Chinese goods.
Analysts attribute China’s export growth to increased shipments to markets like the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the US, where exports grew 18.9% and 15.6%, respectively. The country’s exports of electric vehicles and semiconductors also saw significant growth last year.
Despite this, economists warn that boosting domestic demand will become a priority for China in the coming year, as external momentum fades. The country’s full-year GDP data is due later this week, and policymakers are expected to assess the impact of potential tariff hikes on their stimulus measures.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/13/china-december-imports-exports-beat-expectations.html