China's Trade Growth Starts 2026 Strong With Biggest Gain In 4 Years

ING Economic and Financial Analysis5.23K FollowersFollow5ShareSavePlay(7min)CommentsSummaryChina's trade growth handily beat forecasts at the start of the year.Exports continue to be driven by ships, chips, and autos, as global demand offsets the drag from US tariffs.As exports boom, trading partners will be encouraged by strong import growth as China aims to balance out trade. sankai/iStock via Getty Images By Lynn Song, Chief Economist, Greater China Key export engines continue to drive strength in China's exports China's exports grew by 21.8% year-on-year in the first two months of 2026, up from 5.5% in 2025, well above market expectations. ThisThis article was written byING Economic and Financial Analysis5.23K FollowersFollowFrom Trump to trade, FX to Brexit, ING’s global economists have it covered. Go to ING.com/THINK to stay a step ahead. We’re sorry we can’t reply to individuals' comments.Content disclaimer: The information in the publication is not an investment recommendation and it is not investment, legal or tax advice or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any financial instrument.This publication has been prepared by ING solely for information purposes without regard to any particular user's investment objectives, financial situation, or means. For our full disclaimer please click here.