Export Performance - In January-February 2026, China's total export value reached $656.58 billion, a year-on-year increase of 21.8%, up 15.2 percentage points from the previous period[6] - The low base effect from January-February 2025, where exports grew only 2.3%, significantly contributed to the current surge in export growth[12] - Exports to the EU and ASEAN saw substantial increases, with growth rates of 27.8% and 29.4% respectively, indicating a recovery in trade relations[14] Import Performance - In January-February 2026, China's total import value was $442.96 billion, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 19.8%, up 14.1 percentage points from the previous month[17] - Imports from most countries increased, with significant growth in crude oil and food imports, while steel imports continued to decline due to domestic structural adjustments[18] - Imports from RCEP countries grew by 22.7%, accounting for 34.5% of total imports, with notable increases from Japan (26.5%) and South Korea (35.8%)[17] Trade Balance - The trade surplus for January-February 2026 was $213.62 billion, indicating a robust trade performance amid a recovering external trade environment[6] - The overall trade environment is improving, with structural changes in trade contributing to the upward trend in both exports and imports[12] Future Outlook - The external environment is expected to remain complex, with potential fluctuations in trade growth anticipated for 2026[21] - Continued recovery in trade relations with the EU and ASEAN, alongside the impact of the Federal Reserve's interest rate policies, may influence export growth dynamics[22]