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China’s exports surge 36%, driving $1.2T trade surplus

By Drooid · Oct 19, 2026, 5:58 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

China reported 4.5% year-on-year growth in the July-September quarter, driven by strong exports.
The IMF cut its 2026 China growth forecast to 4.5%, matching Beijing’s lower target.
Exports rose 36%, putting China for a $1.2 trillion trade surplus and $938 billion Jan-Sept surplus.
EU and China agreed to halve Chinese hybrid-vehicle imports over the next few years.
Cornell professor Eswar Prasad warned China’s reliance on foreign demand is unsustainable and drags growth.

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Story summary

China reported 4.5% year-on-year growth in the July-September quarter, driven by strong exports.
The IMF cut its 2026 China growth forecast to 4.5%, matching Beijing’s lower target.
Exports rose 36%, putting China for a $1.2 trillion trade surplus and $938 billion Jan-Sept surplus.
EU and China agreed to halve Chinese hybrid-vehicle imports over the next few years.
Cornell professor Eswar Prasad warned China’s reliance on foreign demand is unsustainable and drags growth.