China's exports exceeded 8 trillion yuan in the third quarter of 2026 for the first time, growing 22%, according to the State Council Information Office press conference held on October 14.
Customs spokesperson Wang Jun attributed the strong export performance to a complete industrial and supply chain system, continued expansion of advanced manufacturing, and the ability to respond quickly and precisely to global production and consumption demand.
On the production side, ship exports exceeded 350 billion yuan in the first nine months, up 24.6%. Industrial robot exports approached 10 billion yuan, up 16.9%. Electronic component exports grew 70%, electrical equipment up 25.3%, basic organic chemicals up 24.4%, and primary plastic products up 32.2%.
On the consumption side, digital camera exports rose 40.5% in the first nine months, while compact ice makers, portable air conditioners and other Chinese-made products have become popular with global consumers.
Wang said China will accelerate the construction of a modern industrial system led by advanced manufacturing, providing trading partners and global consumers with a wider range of options that can both reach the highest end and meet practical everyday needs.
The third-quarter data strengthens the case that China's export structure continues to upgrade toward higher value-added goods, with green products and advanced equipment taking a growing share of the mix.
Source: China Youth Daily / China Customs Administration
