China's export growth rate rebounded to 7.2% in August

Abstract According to the latest data released by the General Administration of Customs, China's foreign trade exports saw a year-on-year growth of 7.2% in August, marking a recovery of 2.1 percentage points compared to the previous month. This rebound suggests a positive shift in the country’s export performance after a period of slowdown. Notably, the share of general trade in total foreign trade has risen significantly. In August, China’s general trade imports and exports reached $192.3 billion, up 12.3% from the same period last year. This accounted for 54.5% of the total foreign trade value, an increase of 2.5 percentage points compared to the same time last year. Meanwhile, processing trade totaled $114.37 billion, growing by 1.7%, making up 32.4% of the total trade volume. Analysts point out that in July, both import and export growth rates turned negative, raising concerns about the health of China’s foreign trade. However, the improved numbers in August indicate a gradual recovery. While some experts expect a strong rebound in export growth during the third quarter—following weaker performances in May and June—there are also warnings that the fourth quarter may see a decline due to ongoing global economic uncertainties and weak demand in key markets. Overall, the data reflects a mixed but improving trend in China’s foreign trade activities.