China PMI May 2026

According to the latest data on China’s external trade performance, the country recorded a trade surplus of USD 105 billion in May 2026, compared with USD 103 billion in the same month of 2025. The surplus also exceeded market expectations of USD 92 billion and represented the highest level recorded since January 2026.

Chinese exports continued to expand strongly, increasing by 19.4 per cent year-on-year and reaching a record value of USD 377 billion in May 2026. This compares with growth of 14.1 per cent recorded in April and exceeded market expectations of 15 per cent.

Imports also registered significant growth. In May 2026, imports increased by 27.4 per cent year-on-year to USD 271 billion, accelerating from the 25.3 per cent growth recorded in April and exceeding forecasts of 25 per cent. The expansion of imports reflects sustained domestic demand and continued integration with international markets.

Trade relations with major partners remained an important component of China’s external sector. China’s trade surplus with the United States increased to USD 26 billion in May 2026, compared with USD 23 billion in April.

Looking at the cumulative performance for the first five months of 2026, China’s trade surplus reached USD 451 billion. Exports increased by 15.5 per cent, while imports expanded by 24.5 per cent.

Overall, trade indicators point to a solid external performance, supported by record export values, sustained import growth, and continued expansion in trade flows with major international partners. These trends underline the importance of international trade as a key component of China’s economic activity and global economic integration.