Tariffs? What tariffs? China posts record-breaking trade surplus in 2025

China's trade surplus reached a record $1.19 trillion in 2025, with both exports and imports surging in December. This figure indicates that China remains resilient against US tariffs. Notably, electric vehicle exports have driven much of this growth, with overall vehicle exports increasing by 19%, while EV exports surged by 49%. Despite a 20% decline in exports to the US, China has successfully redirected its export focus towards Africa and Southeast Asia, seeing increases of 26% and 13% respectively, alongside a slight 6% rise in exports to the EU. The robust trade figures suggest that strategic preparations made by China in advance of trade tensions have enabled it to navigate challenges effectively. The broader implications of these developments for global trade should be closely monitored.