Baku:China's trade surplus reached $133.5 billion in September, marking the highest level since January 2025, as reported by China's customs authority (GACC).

According to Anadolu Agency, exports saw a significant increase of 36.3% year-on-year, totaling $447.1 billion. Imports also rose by 31% to $313.6 billion. Wang Jun, spokesperson and vice president of the Chinese customs authority, attributed this growth to strong global demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and electrical infrastructure, which boosted the demand for chips and components.

Exports to the US surged by 39.5%, while those to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) increased by 52.2%, and exports to EU countries grew by 25.2%. This rise in trade activities has contributed to a trade surplus of $938.1 billion in the first nine months of the year, positioning China for a potential new record surplus by year-end.

China's consumer price index (CPI) increased by 0.9% year-on-year in September, showing moderate monthly acceleration but falling short of expectations. Meanwhile, the producer price index (PPI) rose 5% year-on-year, the fastest since June 2022, surpassing the 3.8% estimate. Analysts suggest that these economic indicators might lead policymakers to consider additional support measures to meet growth targets.

Lynn Song, chief economist for China at ING Group, noted that core trade ties are expected to remain stable, supporting growth through the end of the year. Song highlighted that Chinese exports to the US continue to recover, and exports have evolved significantly over the past decade, moving towards higher-margin goods.

Imports over the first three quarters increased by 27.5% year-on-year, reaching $2.43 trillion, with technology products being a key driver of growth. This trend underscores China's ongoing investment in the technology sector and sets the stage for a continuation of last year's record $1.2 trillion trade surplus.