China's exports grew by 2.5% in March 2026 compared to the same month last year, according to data released by the General Administration of Customs on Monday, April 14. The figure, reported in U.S. dollar terms, marks a return to growth after a decline in the previous month.
Imports for the month, however, fell by 1.9%, a result that was weaker than market expectations. This decline contributed to a widening of the country's trade surplus, which reached $82.62 billion for March.
The export growth suggests resilient external demand for Chinese goods, though analysts note the pace remains modest amid global economic uncertainties. The import contraction points to ongoing challenges in domestic demand within the world's second-largest economy.
The customs administration provides these monthly trade figures, which are closely watched as indicators of global economic health and China's manufacturing strength.
