China’s trade with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) surpassed 1 trillion U.S. dollars for the first time, reaching 1.05 trillion U.S. dollars last year—a 7.4 percent year-on-year increase, according to China’s Vice Minister of Commerce Yan Dong.
Trade Growth and Bilateral Partnerships
China has held its position as ASEAN’s largest trading partner for 17 consecutive years, while ASEAN has remained China’s biggest trading partner for six successive years, according to Yan. In the first seven months of the year, total trade between China and ASEAN hit 744.41 billion U.S. dollars. This figure marks a 24.7 percent increase compared to the same period last year and accounts for 21.8 percent of China’s total foreign trade.
Bilateral investment cooperation has also climbed steadily. By July, cumulative two-way investment between China and ASEAN exceeded 515 billion U.S. dollars. Cumulative turnover for Chinese enterprises running contracted projects in the region surpassed the same 515 billion U.S. dollar threshold, as reported by Yan during a press conference.
Did you know? ASEAN accounted for 21.8 percent of China’s total foreign trade volume in the first seven months of the year, driven by double-digit growth in bilateral transactions.
China-ASEAN Expo Features AI and Tech
The trade milestones were highlighted ahead of the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo. The event is scheduled to run from Sept. 17 to 21 in Nanning, the capital of south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The expo brings together over 2,200 Chinese enterprises and nearly 1,000 ASEAN companies.
For the first time, the expo will feature a dedicated exhibition area designed to showcase the technological and application needs of ASEAN countries. This space allows Chinese enterprises to engage in targeted business matching based on displayed demands. Additionally, organizers upgraded the artificial intelligence exhibition area launched last year, introducing an “AI marketplace” featuring over 400 product models available for on-site trials and direct purchases.
Future Cooperation and Free Trade Upgrades
Looking ahead, China plans to push for the early entry into force and implementation of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade Protocol, which was signed in October 2025, according to Ministry of Commerce official Wang Liping. The country will also facilitate cooperation in the digital economy and green development.
Wang noted that Beijing will expand imports of quality ASEAN goods to boost bilateral trade volumes. Both sides intend to explore new cooperation spaces in emerging fields, with a strong push toward trade in services, digital trade, and green trade.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much was China-ASEAN trade last year?
Bilateral trade value reached 1.05 trillion U.S. dollars, crossing the 1 trillion mark for the first time with a 7.4 percent year-on-year increase.
What is the status of China and ASEAN’s trading partnership?
When and where is the next China-ASEAN Expo?
The 23rd China-ASEAN Expo is scheduled from Sept. 17 to 21 in Nanning, the capital of south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
Stay Updated on Global Trade
Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates on international trade agreements, bilateral investments, and emerging market trends.
Worth a look