From 'world factory' to 'world market': China's imports surge 22% in first seven months

(ECNS)-- China’s imports rose 22% year on year in the first seven months of 2026, outpacing export growth by 8 percentage points, according to data from the General Administration of Customs. 

The strong growth highlights China’s expanding role as a major global consumer market alongside its long-standing position as the “world’s factory.”

In the first half of the year, industrial raw materials and components were among the main drivers of import growth. Imports of metal ores rose 22.6%, while imports of electronic components jumped 45.6%, supporting China’s high-end manufacturing sector and industrial supply chains.

Consumer goods also recorded robust growth, with imports of edible oils and aquatic products increasing 19.2% and 24.1%, respectively.

Market-opening measures have provided further momentum. Following the introduction of zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries on May 1, China’s imports from Africa rose 23.5% over the following two months.

China has now granted zero-tariff treatment to 63 countries, while its overall tariff level has fallen to 7.3%. As the largest export market for nearly 80 countries, China has remained the world’s second-largest import market for 17 consecutive years. 

(By Helen Mo, intern Lin Qiaochu)