The Evolution of China’s Trade Structure: 1992-2024
China’s accession to the WTO accelerated its shift from the “workshop of the world” to a central node of manufacturing, production and demand.
China’s accession to the WTO accelerated its shift from the “workshop of the world” to a central node of manufacturing, production and demand.
Of China’s USD 3.6 trillion in exports in 2024, these were the top five export categories and products—and the largest buyers for each.
ANDAMAN PARTNERS presents a summary of China's four major export clusters.
Asia remains China’s main export destination, though its share has eased slightly.
Metals, agricultural goods and food products led export gains, while food, textiles and manufactured inputs rose fastest on the import side.
The 11 ASEAN economies are integrated into a diverse bloc in Southeast Asia, a region that is now the world’s leading conduit between East and West.
Vietnam, Ireland and the UAE led export growth among large economies, while Djibouti, Guyana and Armenia stood out among smaller exporters.
China dominates steel production, accounting for 53% of global output and nearly 1 in 5 dollars of steel exports in 2024.
China alone accounts for a fifth of global crude oil imports while supply remains concentrated in a handful of exporters.
Africa is China’s fastest-growing export market and North America is the slowest. China’s exports to Africa are destined to eclipse those to North America.