China Accelerates Its Role in Global Trade: Progress, Strategies, and Challenges

In recent months, China has strengthened its role as one of the most influential trading powers on the planet. Despite tensions with the United States and an internal economic slowdown, the Asian country has managed to maintain solid growth in its exports, while diversifying markets, driving its technological transformation, and expanding cooperation with nations of the Global South.

During September 2025, Chinese exports grew by 8.3% year-on-year, reaching 328.5 billion dollars—their highest level in half a year. Although shipments to the United States fell by 27% due to new tariffs, China offset these losses through a strategic expansion toward Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. The countries associated with the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) already accounted for more than 50% of its foreign trade, consolidating an increasingly integrated commercial bloc.

Another key aspect of this progress is the transformation of China’s export profile. The country is leaving behind the model based on low value-added products and is betting on high-impact technological sectors. Today, electric vehicles, lithium batteries, solar panels, and electronic equipment dominate a large part of exports, accompanied by rapid development in semiconductors, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

This evolution is supported by a strong industrial policy and massive investments in innovation and sustainability.

Digitalization is also revolutionizing China’s foreign trade. From traditional markets such as Yiwu—known as “the world’s factory”—to the tech giants of Shenzhen, e-commerce platforms powered by artificial intelligence are transforming the way international business is done. Chinese companies already use AI tools to translate, generate content, and personalize sales strategies for different markets. In addition, the government has implemented pilot zones for digital trade, aiming to establish international standards and facilitate the participation of foreign companies.

In the services sector, China is opening its economy in areas such as telecommunications, education, and healthcare, attracting foreign investment and strengthening its presence in global digital markets. It has also promoted zero-tariff policies for a significant share of products originating from less developed countries, especially in Africa and Asia, reinforcing its image as a strategic trading partner of the Global South.

Nevertheless, the challenges are significant. Trade tensions with the United States remain a risk factor: threats of new 100% tariffs and controls on critical technology exports generate uncertainty.

Domestically, the weakness of the real estate sector and low consumer confidence limit a full recovery of the domestic market. Furthermore, global competition for technological leadership and growing demands in environmental and regulatory transparency add complexity to China’s strategy.

Even so, the global impact is undeniable. China is redefining the geography of international trade: supply chains are diversifying, emerging countries are gaining prominence, and competition over technological and digital standards is intensifying. While some economies seek to reduce their dependence on the Asian giant, others are taking advantage of opportunities for collaboration, investment, and trade that it offers.

In short, China is moving toward a new stage in its economic history: more digital, more technological, and with an increasingly sophisticated global strategy. Its challenge will be to balance innovation and openness with internal stability, maintaining its position as one of the key engines of global trade.