China's exports rose more than expected in July, at the fastest pace since April, despite higher tariffs imposed by the United States, indicating that global demand remains a key driver for the world's second-largest economy.
According to customs data released Thursday, Chinese dollar-denominated exports rose 7.2% year-on-year in July, exceeding expectations for a 5.4% increase.
Imports increased 4.1% year-on-year, the largest increase since July 2024, and defying expectations for a 1% decline, leaving the country with a trade surplus of $98.2 billion.
Shipments to the United States fell 22% year-on-year, following a nearly 16% decline in June, as Washington and Beijing have yet to reach a broad trade agreement, with the truce between them set to expire on August 12.
Since the beginning of the current year, China's exports have increased by 6.1% year-on-year, while imports have declined by 2.7%, bringing the trade surplus to $683.5 billion by July, a 32% increase over last year