China ranks among top three trading partners for 157 countries, regions

(ECNS) -- China has become one of the top three trading partners for 157 countries and regions worldwide, the General Administration of Customs (GAC) said Monday.

In 2024, China's trade with Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) participating countries reached 22 trillion yuan (about $3 trillion), comprising more than half of its total imports and exports, said Sun Meijun, head of GAC. China's imports and exports with ASEAN countries, Latin America, Africa, Central Asia, and other emerging markets have increased by over 10% annually.

Highlighting China's commitment to international cooperation, she noted that the country has signed 519 international agreements since 2021 to promote mutual economic benefits. The GAC also reaffirmed China's support for the multilateral trading system and opposition to unilateralism and trade bullying.

"During this period, China's ‘circle of friends' has continued to expand, and its path to trade diversification has grown increasingly broader," Sun added.

(By Zhang Dongfang)