Radio France Internationale (RFI) Chinese Edition recently reported that China’s exports to the United States dropped by 17.6 percent in April compared to March, according to newly released data from China’s General Administration of Customs. Exports to the U.S. totaled US$33 billion last month, down from US$40.1 billion in March, as trade tensions between Beijing and Washington persist.
Some economists noted that the full impact of U.S. tariffs may not yet be reflected in April’s figures, partly due to transshipments through third countries and trade contracts signed prior to the implementation of the tariffs. However, analysts widely expect trade performance to deteriorate further in the coming months.
On the import side, China’s purchases declined by just 0.2 percent in April—less than the six percent drop forecast by analysts. Given that imports are seen as a key indicator of domestic consumer demand, this smaller-than-expected decrease has drawn close attention.
To counter the economic headwinds stemming from sluggish consumption and ongoing trade friction with the U.S., China’s central bank has recently introduced measures to stimulate the economy. These include a cut to the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) to encourage bank lending and a reduction in mortgage rates aimed at easing pressure on the housing market.
Source: RFI Chinese, May 9, 2025
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