China's Annual Trade Surplus Hits Record $1.2 Trillion as December Exports Sharply Beat Estimates

China's Trade Surplus Hits Record High

China's annual trade surplus has hit a record high of $1.2 trillion, according to data released on January 14, 2026. The surplus was driven by a sharp increase in exports in December, which beat expectations.

Record High Exports

China's exports growth in December sharply beat expectations, catapulting the annual trade surplus to a record high. The country's exports rose to $456.8 billion in December, up 14.7% from the same period last year. This was higher than the expected 10% growth rate.

Trade Balance Grows in December

The trade balance, which measures the difference between exports and imports, grew in December as exports blew past expectations. China's trade balance grew to $63.8 billion in December, up from $44.6 billion in the same period last year.

Impact on Economy

The record high trade surplus is expected to have a positive impact on China's economy. The country's trade surplus has been a major contributor to its economic growth in recent years. The increase in exports is also expected to boost China's manufacturing sector, which has been facing challenges in recent times.

Source

The data was released by CNBC on January 14, 2026. [6] China's annual trade surplus hits a record $1.2 trillion as December exports sharply beat estimates

Sources

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