浙江最大贸易伙伴易主凸显区域合作新动能

Core Viewpoint - A historic shift is occurring in Zhejiang, where ASEAN has surpassed the EU to become the province's largest trading partner for the first time in history, reflecting significant changes in trade dynamics and economic relationships [1][4][13]. Trade Dynamics - From January to October this year, Zhejiang's total import and export value with ASEAN reached 710.61 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 16.2%, while trade with the EU totaled 702.94 billion yuan, with a growth rate of only 7.5% [4][6]. - The overall import and export value of Zhejiang for the same period was 4.60 trillion yuan, growing by 5.3%, which is 1.7 percentage points higher than the national average [4][12]. Factors Driving Change - The shift in trade partnerships is attributed to multiple factors, including the accelerated restructuring of global supply chains and the ongoing benefits from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) [4][8]. - ASEAN's role as a significant manufacturing base and consumer market complements Zhejiang's industries, particularly in emerging sectors like digital economy and green energy [4][12]. Export Growth Areas - Exports of electric passenger vehicles from Zhejiang to ASEAN surged by 195%, and lithium-ion batteries increased by 67.2% from January to October [6][10]. - The trade has evolved from primarily labor-intensive products to include high-tech products such as machinery and electric vehicles, indicating a shift towards more sophisticated exports [10][12]. Import Trends - Zhejiang's imports from ASEAN are diversifying beyond raw materials to include high-quality agricultural products and industrial goods [11][12]. Role of Private Enterprises - The transition to ASEAN as the largest trading partner is significantly driven by Zhejiang's robust private enterprise sector, which comprises 112,000 foreign trade companies, with private enterprises accounting for 82% of the province's total import and export value [12][13]. - Private enterprises in Zhejiang have shown a 9.4% growth rate in exports, contributing 96.6% to the overall export growth [12].