Global Copper Demand Rises as Mine Supply Tightens While China Anchors the Market
Global copper consumption continues to climb, and mine production expands slowly, while refining and demand remain heavily concentrated in China.
China’s Trade With Africa Accelerates as Industrial Exports Surge and Surplus Widens
China’s exports to Africa grew 26% in 2025, led by machinery, vehicles and light manufacturing, while imports expanded only modestly.
Online Retail’s Share of China’s Consumer Market Has More Than Doubled Over the Past Decade
Total retail sales expanded steadily over the past decade, while online retail grew much faster, lifting digital penetration to 32% by 2025.
China’s Steel Industry Plateaus as Demand Growth Shifts to Emerging Economies
China’s crude steel output has stabilised near peak levels while India expands rapidly, reflecting a gradual rebalancing of global steel demand.
China and the Global Critical Minerals and Battery Supply Chain Landscape
Upstream mineral supply is globally distributed, but China remains the dominant actor in the midstream and downstream battery ecosystem.
China’s Investment Engine Moderates as Private and Property Activity Weakens
Fixed asset investment has continued to expand steadily, but growth has slowed in recent years, with the sharpest declines in real estate and construction.
Asia Dominates China’s Trade; Fastest Growth in Africa and Latin America
Asia accounts for over half of China’s trade, but growth momentum is shifting toward developing regions, especially Africa and Latin America.
China’s Power Generation Expands as Renewables Gain Share
Electricity generation rose 2.2% in 2025, as thermal output declined for the first time in a decade, with strong gains in solar and wind.
Australia-China Trade Rebalancing as Industrial Imports Outpace Commodity Exports
With commodity exports down from 2021, faster growth in machinery, electronics and transport imports has narrowed Australia’s trade surplus.
China’s Freight Flows Point to Steady Economic Momentum in 2025
Freight volumes suggest stable conditions in industrial and domestic demand rather than a cyclical upswing.