China’s trade data for January–February came in much stronger than expected

China’s trade data for January–February came in much stronger than expected.

• Exports (USD terms) rose 21.8% y/y (expected 7.1%, previous 6.6%).

• Imports (USD terms) increased 19.8% y/y (expected 6.3%, previous 5.7%).

• Trade balance printed at $213.62B, well above the $179.6B forecast (previous $114.10B).

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Added, more detail here:

• China exports surge 21.8% as trade surplus widens at start of 2026 - more detail