China's foreign trade reached unprecedented levels in 2024, as the country solidified its position at the forefront of global goods commerce.

According to the General Administration of Customs (GAC), China's total goods imports and exports soared to 43.85 trillion yuan (approximately 6.1 trillion USD), marking a 5 percent year-on-year increase.

Exports saw a 7.1 percent increase to 25.45 trillion yuan, while imports rose by 2.3 percent, totaling 18.39 trillion yuan.

GAC Deputy Head Wang Lingjun characterized this growth as rapid compared to other major economies, emphasizing China's robust performance throughout the year.

December's trade figures alone hit a record monthly high, with more than 4 trillion yuan in imports and exports, a 6.8 percent increase from the previous year.

China's leading status in global trade was confirmed as its exports and imports composed 14.5 percent and 10.5 percent of the world's totals, respectively, as reported by the World Trade Organization.

Wang attributed these achievements to the proactive policies introduced by the central authorities and efforts to stabilize foreign trade, including 16 measures aimed at enhancing the business environment at ports and facilitating easier customs processes.

Wang noted a significant optimization and upgrading in the structure of import and export products, with a notable rise in high-tech and green product trade.

In 2024, machinery exports grew by 8.7 percent, and high-tech exports, including electric vehicles and 3D printers, experienced rapid growth.

The burgeoning sector of cross-border e-commerce also saw trade values reaching 2.63 trillion yuan.

Additionally, China's dedication to green trade emerged prominently, with green energy exports such as wind and solar equipment contributing significantly to global climate change efforts, stated Lyu Daliang, GAC's Statistics and Analysis Director.

The export of electric vehicles surpassed 2 million units, while green transport exports saw consistent growth.

On the import front, China's rising demand for electronic components and consumer goods further bolstered global trade partners.

Imports of consumer goods, including clothing and wine, saw steady increases, despite a slower overall growth rate in imports due to declining commodity prices.

China's trade community expanded in 2024, with the Belt and Road Initiative countries accounting for over 50 percent of the nation's trade value.

More than 150 countries counted China as a major trading partner, reflecting the country's broadening 'friends circle' in global trade.

With the EU maintaining its position as a key source of imported consumer products, China's trade relationships with ASEAN, BRICS members, Latin America, Africa, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe continued to strengthen.

In closing, China's trade achievements in 2024 underscore its pivotal role in the global market, with the country poised to continue its influence and drive in fostering international economic cooperation and integration.