China 2025 Trade Surplus Hits Record $1.2 Trillion Despite Rising US Tariffs

A staggering $1.2 trillion—that's the size of the trade gap China carved out in 2025. Despite the intensifying tariff war with the United States, Beijing's trade machine didn't just survive; it broke records. By pivoting away from hostile markets toward Southeast Asia and the Global South, Chinese exporters have effectively neutralized Washington's economic pressure.

China 2025 Trade Surplus 1.2 Trillion Dollars: Breaking Down the Data

According to customs data released on Wednesday, Chinese exports climbed 5.5% last year to a total of $3.77 trillion. While US trade dwindled under high tariffs, increased volume with other nations more than filled the void. Imports remained steady at $2.58 trillion, leaving a historic surplus of $1.19 trillion. For context, the gap was $992 billion in 2024, just before the latest round of trade escalations.

However, it wasn't a win across all boards. Trade with Russia saw its first drop in five years. A cooling demand for Chinese vehicles and a decline in the value of Russian crude oil imports pulled back the record-high figures seen in 2024. Despite this, Wang Jun of China’s customs administration stated that diversified trading partners have significantly enhanced the nation's ability to withstand external risks.

Tech Momentum and GDP Growth Targets

The engine behind this growth? High-tech components. Strong global demand for semiconductors and electronic devices remained the backbone of the export surge. In December alone, exports jumped 6.6%, beating most economist estimates. Lynn Song, chief economist at ING, noted that this massive surplus puts China's trade balance on par with the GDP of a top 20 global economy.