China's exports soar in 1st 2 months of 2026
China kicked off 2026 with a huge export boost: sales abroad jumped 21.8% in January and February.
That's way above what experts predicted and much faster than last year's pace.
Imports also grew nearly 20%, pushing China's trade surplus up to $213.6 billion compared to $169.2 billion a year ago.
China diversifies export markets
While exports to the US fell sharply in 2025, China found new growth by selling more to Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.
Tech products like integrated circuits surged by almost 27%, making up a big chunk of the gains, and new energy vehicles shot up by one-half.
China sets GDP growth target at 4.5%-5%
Premier Li Qiang set this year's GDP growth target at 4.5% to 5%, slightly lower than before, amid ongoing trade tensions with the US
A Trump-Xi summit is on the cards this month as both sides try to ease friction, while China keeps looking for new markets and ways to stay ahead globally.