China trade exports rose 25% in August on artificial intelligence demand
China's total foreign trade grew in August driven by surging global demand for AI-linked technologies and semiconductor equipment.
China recorded a strong increase in foreign trade during August, with both imports and exports rising. Officials state that exports climbed 25% compared to the same period last year, accelerating from July's growth rate of 23.9%. This figure fell slightly short of economists' forecasts of 25.9%, as cited by Bloomberg analysts. Imports also increased by 28.2% annually in August, rising from 27.5% in July but remaining below expectations for a 31% rise. Trade volume grew significantly following a record trade surplus achieved in 2025. The surge is attributed to heightened global demand for products tied to the artificial intelligence boom, including semiconductors and computer machinery. This economic activity occurred just before an expected meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump.
