China’s automotive sector recorded 798.39 billion yuan ($112.8 billion) in exports during the first ten months of 2025, marking a 14.3% year-on-year increase, according to data from the General Administration of Customs, reported by IT-Home. The figures highlight the continued expansion of Chinese vehicle shipments despite broader global trade slowing.
During the same period, China’s total goods exports reached 22.12 trillion yuan ($3.12 trillion), up 6.2%, while imports stood at 15.19 trillion yuan ($2.14 trillion), roughly unchanged from a year earlier. Vehicles were among the strongest contributors to export growth, outperforming the broader manufacturing average, with mechanical and electrical products accounting for over 60% of exports. Automobiles and semiconductors led the gains.
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In October alone, vehicle exports rose 34% year-on-year, while integrated circuit exports increased 26.9%, signaling sustained overseas demand for electrified and high-tech products. Analysts note that Chinese automakers have increasingly expanded into emerging markets, including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.
China’s overall exports in October fell 0.8% year-on-year, the first monthly decline in several months, attributed to a high comparison base, fewer working days during the Mid-Autumn holiday, and weaker demand from Western markets. Private enterprises maintained a key role in trade, accounting for 21.28 trillion yuan ($3.00 trillion) in combined imports and exports, a 7.2% year-on-year increase.
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While customs data did not provide details on specific export destinations or vehicle types, industry reports suggest electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles remain major growth drivers. Strong overseas shipments from brands such as BYD, SAIC, and Chery have reinforced China’s position as one of the world’s largest vehicle exporters.
Analysts expect full-year automotive exports to remain above 2024 levels, though growth may moderate as external demand softens and trade restrictions persist. The sector’s performance underscores China’s ongoing shift toward higher-value production and global market expansion.