China sees fastest export increase in six months in September

According to China customs data (LSEG), exports in September rose 8.3% year-on-year in USD terms, surpassing economists’ expectation of 7.1%. This increase indicates a recovery following the six-month decline observed in August.

Imports increased 7.4% compared with the same period last year, well above the forecasted 1.5% growth, reaching the strongest level since April 2024.

Amid renewed tensions between Beijing and Washington, both sides have issued tough statements and imposed new trade restrictions. This suggests that progress achieved in several rounds of bilateral trade talks earlier this year is at risk.