China Trade Surplus 2025 Hits Record $1.19 Trillion Amid Port Expansion

Global trade stayed volatile in 2025, but China's ports didn't blink. They're getting bigger, smarter, and more strategic. While others braced for impact, Beijing pressed ahead with massive hub expansions to secure its trade future.

Port Throughput Jumps 9.5% as Surplus Widens

In the first 11 months of 2025, China's foreign trade container throughput jumped 9.5% year on year. According to official data, the volume reached 320 million TEU (20-foot equivalent units), a surge that fueled a record US$1.19 trillion trade surplus for the full year.

Major hubs like Shanghai were the primary engines behind these numbers. By increasing capacity and streamlining logistics, these ports have managed to handle unprecedented volumes despite shifting global alliances and trade barriers.

Strategic Positioning for a Volatile Era

It's not just about size; it's about strategy. China is building hubs that are more resilient to geopolitical shocks. Analysts suggest that the continued investment in port infrastructure serves as a hedge against decoupling efforts by Western nations, ensuring that China remains the indispensable link in the global supply chain.