Core Insights - China's foreign trade achieved a record high of 45.47 trillion yuan in 2025, with a year-on-year growth of 3.8%, maintaining its position as the world's largest goods trader [1][6] - The export of high-tech products increased by 13.2%, contributing 2.4 percentage points to overall export growth [2] - The diversification of trade partners is evident, with trade relations established with 249 countries and regions, and a decrease in concentration among the top ten trading partners [4][5] Trade Performance - In 2025, exports reached 26.99 trillion yuan, growing by 6.1%, while imports totaled 18.48 trillion yuan, with a modest growth of 0.5% [1] - December 2025 saw a record monthly trade volume of 4.26 trillion yuan, marking a 4.9% year-on-year increase [1] - The import market remains robust, with China expected to be the world's second-largest import market for 17 consecutive years [5] High-Tech and Green Products - High-tech product exports, including specialized equipment and industrial robots, saw significant growth, with industrial robot exports increasing by 48.7% [2] - Green energy products, such as lithium batteries and wind turbines, also experienced substantial export growth, with increases of 26.2% and 48.7% respectively [2] Market Diversification - Trade with emerging markets is expanding, with notable growth in exports to ASEAN, Central Asia, and Africa [3][4] - The trade relationship with Europe remains strong, with over 50% of cosmetics and nearly 60% of automobiles imported from Europe, while exports of pharmaceuticals and industrial robots to Europe grew by over 20% [5] Future Outlook - The external environment for trade in 2026 is expected to be challenging, with global trade growth projected to slow down significantly [6] - Despite these challenges, China's institutional, market, and industrial advantages are expected to enhance its resilience in foreign trade [6]

Core Viewpoint - Dongguan is redefining its manufacturing identity by presenting itself as a "City of Manufacturing Aesthetics" at the 138th Canton Fair, signaling a shift from mere product output to value output in the manufacturing sector [1][2][5]. Group 1: Manufacturing Aesthetics Concept - The concept of "Manufacturing Aesthetics" was systematically introduced by Dongguan in 2024, focusing on six dimensions: design, craftsmanship, production, products, culture, and philosophy [1]. - This initiative aims to inject a more appealing "soul" into Dongguan's robust manufacturing "body," emphasizing the importance of aesthetics in manufacturing [1][6]. - Dongguan's participation in the Canton Fair represents a collective branding effort, showcasing a unified image that highlights the region's commitment to high-quality design and craftsmanship [2][3]. Group 2: Transformation of Dongguan's Manufacturing - Dongguan manufacturers are transitioning from being mere suppliers to solution providers, reflecting a fundamental change in how they present their products [3][4]. - The fair featured a significant increase in "specialized, refined, distinctive, and innovative" enterprises, indicating a shift towards high-quality, niche manufacturing [3]. - Companies are now focusing on creating comprehensive experiences rather than just showcasing individual products, as seen in the home furnishings and electronics sectors [4]. Group 3: Global Trade and Market Positioning - Dongguan's approach to "Manufacturing Aesthetics" is seen as a response to the evolving global trade landscape, positioning itself as a key player in high-quality development within China's manufacturing sector [2][5]. - The city is moving away from traditional labor-intensive industries and is exploring new avenues for brand development and technological innovation [5][6]. - Dongguan's practices illustrate a shift in the global value chain, as companies aim to enhance their positions by focusing on design, sustainability, and brand loyalty [6][7].