Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Wang Lingjun, vice minister of the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC)

Mr. Lyu Daliang, spokesperson of the GACC and director general of the Department of Statistics and Analysis of the GACC

Mr. Lin Shaobin, deputy director general of the Department of General Operation of the GACC

Chairperson:

Ms. Xing Huina, deputy director general of the Press Bureau of the State Council Information Office (SCIO) and spokesperson of the SCIO

Date:

Jan. 13, 2025

Xing Huina:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to this press conference held by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), as part of the series "High-Quality Development Achievements of China's Economy." Today, we have invited Mr. Wang Lingjun, vice minister of the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), to brief you on China's import and export performance in 2024, and to answer your questions. Also present today are Mr. Lyu Daliang, spokesperson of the GACC and director general of the Department of Statistics and Analysis of the GACC; and Mr. Lin Shaobin, deputy director general of the Department of General Operation of the GACC.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Wang for his introduction.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you, Ms. Xing. Friends from the media, happy new year. Welcome to today's press conference. I would like to express my utmost gratitude to you for your long-term interest in and support for China's customs work.

Let me begin with a customs declaration form — the last of the 88.38 million forms processed in 2024. This form was for a batch of translation earbuds shipped from Shenzhen to Japan. While the shipment's value was modest, it marked the successful conclusion of China's foreign trade in 2024.

In 2024, under the strong leadership of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, China's foreign trade achieved remarkable results, securing increases in total volume and increment, as well as improvements in quality. In terms of total volume, we consecutively surpassed the 42 trillion yuan ($5.74 trillion) and 43 trillion yuan thresholds. Last year, the total value of imports and exports set a record high of 43.85 trillion yuan, up 5% year on year. China's position as the world's largest trader of goods has been even further strengthened. China has become a major trading partner for more than 150 countries and regions, with its circle of friends in foreign trade getting larger. In terms of increment, China's foreign trade grew by 2.1 trillion yuan in 2024 — equivalent to the total annual foreign trade volume of a mid-sized country. Currently, our foreign trade growth rate also remains one of the fastest among the world's major economies. In terms of quality, the structure of imports and exports was continuously improved and upgraded. Exports of high-tech products showed strong momentum and of independently branded goods reached record highs, while new forms of trade such as cross-border e-commerce flourished.

These achievements did not come easily. In 2024, China's foreign trade grew steadily and its quality improved. This progress was fundamentally ensured by the centralized, unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee, who fully assessed the situation and implemented a suite of incremental policies in a timely manner, adopting a full range of policies to stabilize and promote foreign trade growth. At the same time, these accomplishments would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of all localities and departments, as well as the hard work of thousands upon thousands of foreign trade practitioners.

Customs authorities have been not only observers and recorders of China's foreign trade development, but also active participants and enablers. In 2024, China's customs departments supervised 5.603 billion metric tons of imported and exported goods, and 39.917 million vehicle crossings. Facing the huge flow of people and goods, we have remained committed to our most basic and important responsibility of safeguarding the national border. Through the Smart Customs initiative, we have built a modern regulatory framework, intercepting epidemics and diseases, prohibited items, and substandard goods at the border. By firmly upholding the safety bottom line and regulatory red line, we have safeguarded national and public interests, ensuring high-quality development with high-level security.

We have kept in mind the primary importance of high-quality development in the new era, introducing and implementing 16 measures for enterprises to facilitate customs clearance in a bid to further improve the business environment at ports. Moreover, we have introduced hundreds of measures to support coordinated regional development strategies, such as the full revitalization of Northeast China, the efforts to accelerate the rise of the central region, and the efforts to make further progress in the large-scale development of the western region in the new era. By doing so, we aim to enhance the combined effect of the policies. We have launched special initiatives in 20 cities to facilitate cross-border trade, aiming at fostering a market-oriented, law-based, international and world-class business environment at ports. We have deepened innovation of customs supervision systems, and fully supported innovative development of various open platforms such as the Hainan Free Trade Port and the Hainan Pilot Free Trade Zone, with the aim of promoting high-quality development through high-level opening up.

Going forward, we will act in accordance with the guidelines of the Central Economic Work Conference, pursuing progress while maintaining stability, and promoting stability through progress. We will work diligently and proactively to accelerate the development of intelligent customs and carry out the "Smart Customs, Strong Nation" initiative. We will promote reform with greater force, ensure safety with stricter supervision, stabilize foreign trade with more practical measures, and promote opening up with higher standards. We will bear the duty of safeguarding borders and promoting development, reassuring the Party and satisfying the needs of the people.

That concludes my introduction. Now, my colleagues and I are happy to take your questions. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

The floor is now open for questions. Please identify the media outlet you represent before asking your question.

China Media Group:

The year 2024 was crucial for China in achieving the goals and tasks outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). You mentioned earlier that China's foreign trade last year saw substantial growth in volume, rate and quality. Could you please elaborate on the features and achievements in the high-quality development of China's foreign trade? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you for your question. High quality requires both quantity and quality. First, let's begin with quantity. Our total import and export value, as I mentioned earlier, reached 43.85 trillion yuan last year, marking a 5% increase. This represents a remarkable expansion of 11.63 trillion yuan compared to 2020, the final year of the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020). This increase surpasses the cumulative growth achieved during the entire 13th Five-Year Plan period by a factor of 1.5. According to the latest data from the World Trade Organization (WTO), China's share of the global export and import markets reached 14.5% and 10.5%, respectively, in the first three quarters of last year. This signifies year-on-year increases of 0.3 percentage point and 0.1 percentage point, respectively. These figures reinforce China's position as the world's largest goods trader.

Then, in terms of quality, China's foreign trade exhibits four key characteristics:

First, the structure has improved. The structure of China's export products continues to be optimized and upgraded. Last year, exports of mechanical and electrical products surged by 8.7%, increasing their share of total exports by 0.9 percentage point to 59.4%. Notably, high-end equipment exports within this sector demonstrated robust growth, exceeding 40%. Imported products have shown increased diversity and effectiveness. Imports of mechanical and electrical products rose by 7.3%, while bulk commodity imports increased by 5%. Notably, the proportion of energy and mineral products imported from Belt and Road partner countries increased by 0.3 percentage point.

Second, the "new" elements in foreign trade have become more prominent. In 2024, China witnessed a surge in the emergence of new products, new business formats and new brands. This substantially increased the presence of "new elements" in foreign trade. Increased exports of high-tech products, such as electric vehicles, 3D printers and industrial robots, demonstrated robust growth, achieving impressive year-on-year increases of 13.1%, 32.8% and 45.2%, respectively. The annual import and export value through new cross-border e-commerce business formats reached 2.63 trillion yuan, surpassing the 2020 figure by 1 trillion yuan. Independent brands have garnered significant global attention, with their share of China's total exports increasing by 0.8 percentage point year on year to 21.8%. Notably, domestic fashion brands have successfully cultivated a unique "Chinese style" that has resonated with global consumers.

Third, the role of business entities has been significantly strengthened. In 2024, nearly 700,000 business entities in China engaged in import and export activities, setting a new record. The GACC hosted the 6th World Customs Organization (WCO) Global Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Conference in Shenzhen last year. This event catalyzed a surge in foreign trade companies seeking AEO certification, a globally recognized "major brand" of trade facilitation. By the end of 2024, the number of companies with AEO qualifications reached 6,338 in China, a substantial increase of 612 compared to the end of 2023.

Fourth, we have forged trade ties with a wider range of partners across the globe. In 2024, China engaged in trade with nearly all nations and regions listed on the U.N. statistical classification. Compared to 2023, we established trade ties with one new export partner and four new import partners, achieving significant growth in both imports and exports through trade with over 160 partners.

To sum up, China's foreign trade achieved significant progress in 2024, with both reasonable growth in quantity and a marked improvement in quality, truly representing high-quality development. Thank you.

Dazhong Daily:

The efficiency of customs clearance is a major concern for foreign trade enterprises, and is also one of the main forces propelling stable growth in foreign trade. Could you please outline the efforts the GACC has undertaken in this regard? And what new measures will the GACC take this year to further simplify customs clearance? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you for your questions. I would like to invite my colleague Mr. Lin to answer.

Lin Shaobin:

Thank you for your questions. Convenience is efficiency, and efficiency is money. Every minute and cent saved in customs clearance adds strength and momentum to the development of foreign trade enterprises. We have always adhered to the principle of "responding to the needs of enterprises," continuously promoting innovation in customs supervision services, and striving to create a safe, convenient and efficient customs clearance environment. The facilitation measures for customs clearance can be summarized in three words: excellent, simple and fast.

"Excellent" refers to optimized processes and services. We have continuously optimized the reform of import and export customs clearance models, implemented a "green channel" for fast clearance, and facilitated enterprises to accelerate their import and export processes. For example, in Guangdong province, we have implemented the "Greater Bay Area (GBA) Combined Port" and the "GBA One Port" convenient customs clearance models, optimizing connections of multiple links such as customs clearance and port allocation. We have achieved uninterrupted year-round circulation and 24/7 direct loading of import and export goods transferred between hub ports and feeder ports. The main import procedures have been reduced from 11 to eight, and the main export procedures from 14 to 10. According to our calculations, the average goods storage period has been shortened to within two days from the previous five to seven days. For low-risk compliant goods, the entire process from declaration to release can now be done online, essentially achieving clearance in seconds.

"Simple" refers to simplified documents and procedures. We have actively promoted the substantial simplification of regulatory certificates required for import and export procedures, and have basically achieved online verification. In accordance with one-stop government services, we have implemented several reforms. For example, Qingdao Customs has combined tax-related and inspection-related testing, improving the clearance efficiency of imported fuel oil and increasing the turnover capacity of oil storage tanks by more than 30%. We have also continuously simplified business processes, with companies now able to enjoy one-stop customs clearance through the single window system for international trade. Recently, we also removed filing procedures for overseas warehouses in cross-border e-commerce. Enterprises now only need to complete the customs declaration entity filing and the cross-border e-commerce enterprise filling to immediately start operations. In short, we are striving to simplify wherever possible and simplify as much as possible, with the goal of making customs clearance for businesses as easy as possible.

"Fast" refers to quick operation and checking. The convenience of customs clearance ultimately depends on how fast it is. We have implemented the remote on-site inspection reform through smart customs pilot program. By using video connections to conduct remote inspections, we can reduce the inspection time per shipment by 90%. We have implemented a control and inspection model for high-tech goods such as vacuum packaging, which can reduce customs clearance time for enterprises by 80%. We have implemented pilot reforms such as "smart inspection and quarantine" and "release before inspection" for imported bulk mineral products and crude oil. For example, Zhanjiang Customs has adopted the "smart inspection and quarantine" model for imported iron ore, reducing the clearance time for each batch by 15 hours and reducing the workload requiring company cooperation by more than 95%. We have also conducted destination inspection pilot programs for imported rail-transported copper concentrate at Urumqi and Lanzhou customs, reducing the clearance time from the original 150-200 hours to less than 30 hours.

There is no end to the work improving customs clearance facilitation. We are well aware of this, and so will continue to organize and promote specialized campaigns to facilitate cross-border trade. We are also planning to introduce specific policies and measures to facilitate customs clearance at airports. In summary, we aim to help foreign trade enterprises save time, money and labor, and reduce their concerns, during customs clearance.

Thank you.

The Beijing News:

In recent years, China has made a series of arrangements for coordinated regional development. The Central Economic Work Conference also included strengthening the implementation of regional strategies and boosting regional development vitality as a key task. How have the various regions across China performed in terms of imports and exports last year? And what role did each region play in stabilizing the country's foreign trade? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Last year, the imports and exports in various major regions of our country achieved balanced and prosperous development. I would like to invite Mr. Lyu to answer your questions.

Lyu Daliang:

Thank you for your questions. Since this is our first meeting of the year, I would like to start by wishing all friends from the media a Happy New Year.

In 2024, China's foreign trade quality improved and the volume stabilized through the coordinated efforts and hard work of the whole country. The eastern, central, western and northeastern regions complemented each other's advantages and exhibited their strengths, achieving growth in both imports and exports.

The eastern region continued to play its role as the "ballast." The total foreign trade volume for the year was 34.95 trillion yuan, an increase of 5.4%, accounting for 79.7% of the country's total import and export value. The region alone imported over 85% of the nation's crude oil and consumer goods, and exported more than 80% of labor-intensive products, household appliances and lithium batteries. The integrated development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao GBA has been continuously accelerating, with imports and exports in the nine mainland cities of the GBA growing by 10.1%, contributing 1.9 percentage points to the growth in national foreign trade. The eastern region also led in the development of the marine economy, with ship exports increasing by 60.8% and offshore drilling platform exports increasing by 1.2 times, both accounting for more than 90% of the national total in these categories.

The western and central regions are also increasingly becoming an open frontier. In 2024, imports and exports reached 7.65 trillion yuan, an increase of 4%. These regions are actively undertaking industrial transfers in an orderly manner, and continuously achieving open development. The proportion of processing trade in the total import and export value has reached 25.5%, which is 7.4 percentage points higher than the national average. More international elements are becoming a part of daily life in the inland regions. Tripe from New Zealand and catfish from Vietnam, transported via the cold chain route along the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, have made it onto our hotpot menus. Thai durians and Laotian bananas, imported via the China-Laos Railway, have enriched people's fruit options.

The openness of the northeast region has also further improved. Its foreign trade volume reached a new high for the fourth consecutive year in 2024, totaling 1.25 trillion yuan, an increase of 1.6%. Exports increased by 8.1%, outpacing the national export growth by 1 percentage point. The industrial advantages of the old industrial base in Northeast China, which has strong production and research and development capabilities, have been further leveraged, with engineering machinery exports increasing by 10.5%, household appliances by 14.4% and electrical control devices by 9%. Notably, the ice and snow economy industry in the northeast region continues to develop, with exports of ski boots, ski clothing and snowboards to Germany, Italy and the Netherlands growing exponentially, adding new highlights to China's foreign trade. Thank you.

Nanfang Daily:

Could you please introduce the import situation? We have noticed that imports were weaker than exports in the second half of last year. What were the main reasons for this? Is it related to insufficient domestic demand? The Central Economic Work Conference has prioritized "expanding domestic demand on all fronts" asthe top priority among itsnine key tasks for 2025. What are your expectations for the country's imports? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

I would like to invite Mr. Lyu to answer these questions.

Lyu Daliang:

Thank you for your interest in the import situation. In 2024, China imported goods worth 18.39 trillion yuan, an increase of 2.3%. According to the latest data from the WTO, as of the first three quarters of last year, China's import growth rate was 1 percentage point higher than the global rate, and it is expected to continue to maintain its position as the second-largest importing country for the entire year.

Imports not only play an important role in the operation of the domestic economy, but also drive the joint development of related countries. Domestically, China's import demand has steadily increased and the scale has continued to expand, not only meeting the needs of domestic production but also enriching consumer choices. In 2024, China's domestic industrial production was stable and rising, with imports of electronic components increasing by 10.1%, semiconductor manufacturing equipment by 21%, and computer parts by 62.6%. In terms of bulk commodities, measured by volume, iron ore imports grew by 4.9%, natural gas by 9.9% and coal by 14.4%. Meanwhile, China's consumer market grew steadily, with robust demand for imports of many consumer goods, such as a 5.6% increase in clothing, 8.6% in fruits and 38.8% in wine.

Last month, in December, due to the upcoming New Year's Day and Spring Festival, China imported consumer goods worth 167.82 billion yuan, reaching a 21-month high, with year-on-year and month-on-month increases of 3.9% and 14.4%, respectively.

Internationally, China has expanded its autonomous and unilateral opening-up in an orderly manner, continuously unleashing the potential of its vast market scale, not only bringing fresh impetus to high-quality foreign trade development but also providing more opportunities for countries around the world to share in the Chinese market. In 2024, imports from Belt and Road partner countries totaled 9.86 trillion yuan, an increase of 2.7%, accounting for 53.6% of the total import value. On Dec. 1, 2024, China granted zero-tariff treatment to all products from all least developed countries with which it has diplomatic relations, leading to an 18.1% increase in imports from these countries for the month, accelerating by 5.8 percentage points compared to the first 11 months.

Regarding the import performance in the second half of last year, we believe it resulted from the combined influence of multiple factors. Among them, the impact of international commodity prices was particularly evident. In the second half of last year, the import prices of major commodities in China showed varying degrees of decline, with the prices of crude oil and iron ore dropping by 9% and 16.7%, respectively. These fluctuations are reflected in the growth rate of imports. In addition, some countries have politicized economic and trade issues, misused export control measures and unjustifiably restricted the export of certain products to China. Without these restrictions, our imports would have been higher.

Regarding imports this year, we believe there is considerable potential for growth. This is not only due to the large capacity and diverse levels of our market, which holds immense potential, but more importantly, we have actively and proactively expanded imports to share the opportunities arising from China's development with the world. By 2030, total imports from developing countries alone are expected to exceed $8 trillion. We believe that with the comprehensive expansion of domestic demand and the orderly advancement of independent and unilateral opening up, China's vast market will undoubtedly offer greater opportunities and more choices to the world.

Thank you.

21st Century Business Herald:

We have noticed that China's foreign trade "circle of friends" has been expanding in recent years. Could you share the key highlights of China's foreign trade with its various trade partners in 2024? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you for your question. China advocates for a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, maintaining trade partnerships all around the world. As I mentioned earlier, we are a primary trade partner for over 150 countries and regions worldwide, ranking among the top three. Moreover, this number continues to rise. Last year, our foreign trade performed remarkably well with both old partners and new friends. These highlights include:

The proportion of China's imports and exports with Belt and Road partner countries exceeded 50% for the first time. Last year, China's imports and exports with Belt and Road partner countries grew by 6.4%, making up 50.3% of its total import and export value. Among them, exports increased by 9.6% and imports increased by 2.7%. Along the Belt and Road, a path to global well-being, "Made in China" effectively aligns with the production and consumption needs of Belt and Road partner countries, while their high-quality specialty products continuously flow into the Chinese market. It is worth mentioning that the China-Europe Railway Express surpassed 100,000 trips last year. The train from Chongqing to Duisburg, Germany, on Nov. 15, 2024, was the 100,000th. This "fleet of steel camels" in the new era has created a new chapter in the Silk Road.

Most of the trade volume came from emerging markets, including ASEAN. China has continuously promoted East Asian cooperation and regional economic integration, and strengthened industrial chain cooperation with ASEAN, maintaining import and export growth with ASEAN for nine consecutive years, and being each other's largest trading partner for five years in a row. The BRICS cooperation mechanism has continued to grow, with China's imports and exports to other BRICS member countries and partner countries rising by 5.5%. Additionally, China has continued to strengthen economic and trade cooperation with Latin America, Africa, the five countries of Central Asia, and Central and Eastern Europe, with imports and exports increasing by 7.2%, 6.1%, 7.2% and 7.5%, respectively. The contribution of the above-mentioned markets to the growth of China's foreign trade reached nearly 60%, making them a key driving force behind the growth of China's foreign trade.

Traditional markets such as the EU and the U.S. also continued to grow. The EU is China's largest source of consumer goods imports and the largest export market for our mechanical and electrical products. The economic and trade ties between the two sides are close, continuously strengthening the bonds of a China-EU community of shared interests. In 2024, bilateral trade grew by 1.6%, with trade with France, Spain and Hungary increasing by 2%, 4.5% and 12.9%, respectively. During the same period, trade between China and the U.S. grew by 4.9%, roughly in line with our overall trade growth rate. We imported agricultural products, energy products, pharmaceuticals and aircraft from the U.S., and exported clothing, consumer electronics and household appliances to the U.S., achieving mutual benefits. Thank you.

Elephant News:

We have noted that last month, the GACC introduced 16 measures to further optimize the business environment at ports and facilitate customs clearance for enterprises. Could you please introduce the key points of these measures? And what new measures will the GACC introduce this year to stabilize foreign trade in accordance with the guiding principles of the Central Economic Work Conference? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

I would like to invite Mr. Lin to answer these questions.

Lin Shaobin:

Thank you for your questions. In 2024, the giant ship of China's foreign trade sailed ahead against all winds and waves, thanks to the strong impetus provided by the policies. From the timely introduction of incremental policies, such as several measures to promote steady growth in foreign trade, to the combined effects of various existing policies, the benefits of policies have been continuously released. These high-quality policies have injected strong momentum into the growth of foreign trade. Just now, the reporter mentioned that the GACC previously introduced 16 measures to further optimize the business environment at ports and facilitate customs clearance for enterprises, with the aim of creating joint efforts to promote steady growth in foreign trade.

In order to introduce the 16 measures, we made a lot of preparations and conducted extensive field research. We went into factories and workshops, listened to the requirements of enterprises, asked about their difficulties, and strived to ensure that the policies and measures can address the pains, difficulties and bottlenecks of enterprises. Overall, these measures focus on the three following aspects. Here, I would like to briefly introduce them.

First, these policies focus on fostering new forms of business. We have optimized the regulatory model for cross-border e-commerce, developed new forms of business of "bonded plus," such as bonded repair and bonded remanufacturing, vigorously supported the healthy and well-regulated development of border trade, further increased the trade volume, and expanded the overall scale of foreign trade.

Second, these policies focus on building new strengths. We have optimized the reform of the customs clearance model for imported goods, with a focus on ensuring the import of energy and mineral products as well as food and agricultural products, and have further facilitated the expansion of exporting products such as automobiles. As such, the customs clearance of these goods, which account for a significant portion of our foreign trade volume, can be more efficient. In this way, the time and costs saved can be translated into a competitive edge for import and export enterprises, thereby stabilizing foreign trade.

Third, these policies focus on stimulating new vitality. We have further extended the list of facilitation measures for AEOs, prioritizing exclusive benefits such as fast-track customs clearance and priority inspections for AEOs. We have expanded the scope of application for voluntary disclosure policies, helped enterprises make good and full use of favorable taxation policies, and made every effort to help foreign trade enterprises enhance their capabilities and stabilize their expectations.

The Central Economic Work Conference has made clear arrangements for expanding high-standard opening up and maintaining the stability of foreign trade and foreign investment. Next, customs will further take firmly stabilizing foreign trade as the priority and fully stimulate the power for making progress. In terms of stabilizing foreign trade, we will boost efforts to ensure the implementation and track the effectiveness of existing policies and measures. Focusing on the pains, difficulties and bottlenecks of enterprises, we will introduce more targeted measures to stabilize foreign trade at an appropriate time. In terms of driving progress, we will continue to comprehensively deepen customs reforms, fully unleash development potential, introduce a new round of measures to support the high-quality development of comprehensive bonded zones, launch customs measures for regulating the Hainan Free Trade Port, and implement a three-year special action for the inspection and admission of food and agricultural products from Belt and Road partner countries, continuously providing inexhaustible power to drive forward the giant ship of China's foreign trade.

Thank you.

Bloomberg News:

CCTV is reporting that exports rose 7.1% to 25.5 trillion yuan last year, creating a record 7 trillion yuan surplus. Can you confirm those numbers? Why is the growth in exports and imports so different? Are you concerned that this growing, and frankly quite large trade surplus, is creating trade protectionism? And do you think exports and the surplus will grow again this year? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you for your questions. I actually touched on this topic at the press conference on China's import and export performance in the third quarter on Oct. 14 last year. I want to stress a few things: First, China does not pursue a trade surplus. The specific export and import volume and trade gap is caused by comprehensive factors such as the international supply-demand relationship, industrial division of labor and market competition. It is not by design. Second, China's trade surplus as a percentage of GDP is within a reasonable range, significantly lower than its record high, and also lower than some other major exporting countries in the world. Third, some countries abuse export controls and restrict exports to China. We want to import and even want to import more, but you do not let us. Yet, you are overly anxious about the trade surplus. That in itself is a self-contradiction.

Here I would like to add that China has been actively expanding imports. It has held the China International Import Expo (CIIE) for seven consecutive years, unilaterally opened its door wider to other countries, expanded market access in an orderly manner, proactively lowered tariff levels, and continuously set new records for the value of imports. This has allowed more countries and more enterprises to share the opportunities and development achievements of the Chinese market, and has also promoted more balanced development of China's trade.

In response to rising protectionism, the WTO pointed out in its World Trade Report 2024 that rising protectionism will harm the growth prospects of all economies. Regardless of changes in the external environment, China will firmly expand opening up and resolutely oppose trade protectionism. With a renewed commitment to win-win cooperation and the determination to open up and through practical measures, China will build bridges of communication, and share opportunities of development, discuss cooperation and promote development with other countries. Thank you.

National Business Daily:

We have noticed some suggestions that the recent export growth rate, which is higher than the seasonal growth forecast, is mainly due to an expected increase of tariff. What are your views on this opinion? What is your evaluation of the export performance for the entire year of 2024? And what are the prospects for exports this year? Thank you.

Lyu Daliang:

Thank you to this journalist for the questions. The three questions you asked pertain to last year's export performance, this year's export situation, and the so-called "rush to export" issue that has attracted widespread attention.

Let me begin by presenting the export situation over the course of last year. In 2024, China's exports surpassed 25 trillion yuan for the first time, reaching 25.45 trillion yuan, which represents a year-on-year increase of 7.1%. This growth has been sustained for eight consecutive years, demonstrating strong momentum and vitality. Specifically, there are three notable characteristics:

First, there is a wide variety of products. China is the world's largest manufacturing hub and the foremost exporter of manufactured goods. In 2024, the manufacturing sector represented 98.9% of our country's total exports. Exports from the equipment manufacturing sector reached 14.69 trillion yuan, while consumer goods manufacturing exports totaled 5.43 trillion yuan, and raw materials manufacturing exports amounted to 3.12 trillion yuan. We are now capable of producing a wide range of items, from large-scale ocean engineering equipment to smaller products like the translation earphones listed in the last customs declaration form we just showed. Our products are of reliable quality and fully meet the production and consumption demands of the international market.

Second, the transformation of growth drivers has been rapid. In recent years, we have been able to meet the needs of the international market, offering a range of products from epidemic prevention supplies to items for the "stay-at-home economy," and now expanding into the "new trio," namely, electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and photovoltaic products. This success is primarily attributed to our well-established and continuously upgraded production and supply chain. Innovative, high-quality and competitive Chinese manufacturing and creativity are continually emerging, facilitating an orderly transformation of drivers and sustained boost in export growth. In 2024, our country's exports of integrated circuits increased by 18.7%, flat panel display modules rose by 18.1%, and ships and marine engineering equipment surged by 60.1%.

Third, there is a broad scope for market expansion. In 2024, our country's exports to over 160 countries and regions increased, with overall growth of 9.6% to BRI countries, 13.4% to ASEAN, 23.3% to Brazil, 19.2% to the UAE, and 18.2% to Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, exports to traditional markets such as the European Union and the United States grew by 4.3% and 6.1%, respectively.

Regarding the recent acceleration in export growth, it's clear that there has been an uptick. In the fourth quarter of last year, exports grew by 9.2%, accelerating by 2.9 percentage points compared to the first three quarters. We believe this not only reflects a continuation of the long-term positive trend but also demonstrates the effectiveness of our implemented policies. In particular, during its meeting on Sept. 26, the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee introduced a package of coordinated incremental and existing policies. These measures have consistently generated positive effects and offered stronger support for exports.

At the same time, that is due to factors that some companies have adjusted their export schedules. According to feedback from companies, several factors have disrupted normal production and business activities, including scheduling delays of fleet following the typhoon last September, the earlier Spring Festival holiday this year compared to last year, and the potential escalation of trade protectionism.

Regarding this year's export trends, there are indeed growing external challenges and uncertainties. However, as I just mentioned, our country's exports are characterized by a wide range of products, flexible transformation of growth drivers and stable, diverse markets. We can be certain that our exports will continue to demonstrate resilience and vitality. Thank you.

The New York Times:

The U.S. government claims that there is an issue of overcapacity in Chinese exports. What is China's position on this matter?

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you for your question. The so-called "overcapacity" issue has been addressed multiple times by relevant departments, including the customs authorities. Whether viewed from the perspective of comparative advantage or global market demand, the so-called "China overcapacity" issue does not exist; this claim is pure fallacy.

As noted earlier, Chinese products have gained widespread popularity in the global market, underpinned by a complete and continually upgrading industrial system, along with sustained investments in research and innovation. We have ensured the stability of the global production and supply chain through our comprehensive manufacturing industry chain, which drives technological progress and industrial upgrades worldwide. This is both evident and undeniable.

Some countries repeatedly overstate this issue, which is essentially an attempt to suppress and contain China's development. In essence, it represents a form of protectionism that severely undermines global industrial cooperation and the stability of production and supply chains. Adhering to open cooperation and mutual benefit is the correct approach for global economic development.

Thank you.

China Financial and Economic News:

At the end of 2023, the Central Economic Work Conference called for an acceleration in the development of new drivers for foreign trade. How have these new drivers performed over the past year? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

That is a good question. Without new drivers, new development cannot occur. It can be said that last year, China's foreign trade reached two new trillion-yuan-level milestones, thanks in large part to the significant driving force of this new momentum. I'd like to invite Mr. Lyu to elaborate on this topic.

Lyu Daliang:

Thank you for your question. In 2024, the scale of our country's foreign trade, in terms of imports and exports, reached a new historical high. A continuous influx of new momentum has injected powerful energy into the development of China's foreign trade.

Our green trade leads the world. China's green products have not only boosted global supply but also made significant contributions to international efforts in combating climate change and facilitating the transition to a green, low-carbon economy. In the field of green energy, China's wind turbine exports surged by 71.9% in 2024. Photovoltaic product exports have exceeded 200 billion yuan for four consecutive years, while lithium battery exports reached a record high of 3.91 billion units. In the field of green transportation, China's export volume of electric locomotives has risen for five consecutive years. Electric motorcycles and bicycles have gained popularity in overseas markets, with export values surpassing 40 billion yuan for the first time. Additionally, the export volume of electric vehicles has exceeded 2 million units for the first time. As the saying goes, "All roads lead to Rome." If these cars were lined up end to end, they could stretch from Beijing to Rome.

Our digital trade is also booming. According to international classification, digital trade is categorized into digitally ordered trade and digitally delivered trade. Customs primarily regulate digitally ordered trade, commonly known as cross-border e-commerce. According to preliminary statistics, China's cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached 2.63 trillion yuan in 2024, an increase of 10.8%. Cross-border e-commerce is further unlocking its potential in "selling globally," while also continuing to leverage its advantages in "buying globally."

In addition, a higher level of opening-up has played a significant role. Comprehensive bonded zones are special customs-supervised areas in China characterized by the highest level of openness, the most concentrated preferential policies, and the most comprehensive functions. Currently, there are 167 comprehensive bonded zones spread across 31 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities in China. These zones play a crucial role in promoting institutional openness as well as facilitating industrial transformation and upgrading. In 2024, the total imports and exports of the comprehensive bonded zones reached 6.7 trillion yuan, marking an increase of 4.7%. In other words, each area, roughly the size of a soccer field, generated over 100 million yuan in imports and exports on average.

Pilot free trade zones have effectively served as a comprehensive experimental platform for reform and opening-up, achieving a total import and export value of 8.45 trillion yuan, an increase of 10.3%. The construction of Hainan Free Trade Port is progressing steadily, with total annual imports and exports reaching 277.65 billion yuan, marking an increase of 20%. Since the implementation of separate line management policies in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, the Hengqin Port at the "first line" has been bustling with activity, effectively facilitating Hengqin-Macao integration.

That's all I would like to say for now. Thank you.

Changjiang Daily:

We have observed that in recent years, customs authorities have prioritized innovation in regulatory systems, receiving praise from various sectors of society. Particularly since last year, the development of smart customs has been actively promoted, creating a safer, more convenient, and efficient customs clearance environment that better supports the stable growth of foreign trade. May I ask how the construction of smart customs is progressing? What are the priority tasks moving forward?

Lin Shaobin:

Thank you, especially for your attention to the work on customs reform and innovation.

Last year's government work report identified the construction of smart customs as a key priority. For the customs system, this is both an honorable and challenging undertaking, directly related to the modernization of China's customs and its contribution to the country's path to modernization. For over a year, we have prioritized the construction of smart customs as a key focus for further deepening all-round reform and as a driving force to promote stable growth in foreign trade. We have made significant strides in digital transformation and intelligent upgrades, striving to leverage the intelligence of smart customs to support the strength of national development.

First, we have improved intelligent infrastructure. By relying on flagship projects, we have improved digital and intelligent infrastructure, further enhancing the digital governance capabilities and standards of customs. For example, our big data pool continues to grow, currently housing over 260 billion pieces of diverse data. This provides robust support for enhancing regulation and optimizing services. In addition, our inventory of intelligent equipment continues to expand, featuring over 40 types of devices and facilities, such as smart individual unit system and smart inspection stations. These have been increasingly utilized in inspection and quarantine, passenger clearance, and other areas, playing a crucial role in preventing invasive species and combating smuggling.

Second, the GACC has enhanced the application of intelligent methods. We take a combined approach to development and application to better fulfill our responsibilities in safeguarding our borders and promoting growth. For example, by utilizing a portable AI-based wood identification system, we can instantly identify hundreds of wood species and insects, with intelligent preliminary screening completed in just 10 minutes. We have also adopted traceability code technology in innovative ways to strengthen the enforcement of Hainan's offshore duty-free policies and effectively crack down on smuggling of duty free goods by "purchasing agents." In addition, we have leveraged digital and intelligent technologies to empower the financial sector and facilitate foreign trade. Preliminary data indicates that since 2023, the GACC has provided streamlined international settlement and financing services to over 220,000 foreign trade enterprises.

Third, the GACC has accelerated the implementation of intelligent projects. The GACC has advanced the rapid implementation of proven projects and functions across various customs-related fields and business sites. This effort aims to deliver tangible benefits to both enterprises and the public, genuinely improving their sense of fulfillment and effectively improving their overall experience. For example, the intelligent supervision system for iron ore enables real-time online detection, intelligent analysis, and handling, significantly reducing cargo clearance times and lowering costs related to ship berthing and port stays. The GACC has reformed its non-trading duty collection models and upgraded its related operational systems. It has also implemented a fully digital process for collecting, paying, and refunding duties on luggage and mail items, allowing travelers to complete customs clearance within seconds after paying duties via a mobile scan.

This year, the GACC will focus on integrating projects under the Smart Customs initiative. It will optimize and reengineer customs supervision protocols and procedures through digital and intelligent methods while further applying AI and other technologies. The GACC will develop a new supervision model characterized by seamless customs clearance, intelligent oversight, minimal interruption, and comprehensive monitoring. This approach will help accelerate the modernization of China's customs sector and better fulfill its duty of safeguarding the country's borders while promoting development. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Due to time constraints, we will have two more questions.

Kyodo News:

In 2024, China's steel exports approached historic highs, even as trade tensions with certain countries escalated. What is China's perspective on this situation?

Wang Lingjun:

I will give the floor to Mr. Lyu to answer your question.

Lyu Daliang:

What I want to convey is that China is a responsible major country and a committed member of the WTO. We have consistently engaged in mutually beneficial trade with various countries in strict accordance with WTO rules. The continuous innovation and upgrading of the country's steel industry are primarily aimed at meeting domestic demand, while also providing innovative and high-quality products to many other countries. At the press conference for the third quarter of last year, I also mentioned that China's ultra-thin stainless steel, known as "hand-tearable steel," represents an advanced standard in the industry. China's steel exports comply with market principles and WTO rules. However, certain countries have adopted protectionist measures against China's steel, which violate international trade rules and drive up downstream production costs. This has disrupted the stability of global industrial and supply chains and does not facilitate the resolution of their own issues or concerns. The customs authorities will focus on their responsibilities to effectively safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.

Thank you.

Xing Huina:

We will have one last question.

Red Star News:

As mentioned earlier, last year, China's foreign trade experienced a rise in quality while maintaining stability in quantity. What factors are supporting the high-quality growth of the country's foreign trade? What is your forecast for the foreign trade trend in 2025? Thank you.

Wang Lingjun:

Thank you. This is a transitional question that connects the past with the future. In 2024, China navigated a complex and challenging external environment; nonetheless, its foreign trade achieved high-quality growth throughout the year, a feat that was not easily accomplished. This can be attributed to three factors.

First, policy coordination provided timely support for the development of high-quality foreign trade. In recent years, China has made continuous efforts to expand high-level openness, which has facilitated stable growth in foreign trade. While continuing to implement existing policies, last year, the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee decisively deployed a package of incremental policies and swiftly introduced a new round of measures to boost stable foreign trade growth. These measures significantly contributed to the foreign trade increase in the fourth quarter, reaching a record high of 11.51 trillion yuan, representing a 0.4 percentage point increase from the third quarter. Especially in December, the scale of imports and exports surpassed 4 trillion yuan for the first time, setting a new monthly record with the growth rate rising to 6.8%. This marked a successful conclusion to the year's foreign trade.

The upgraded version of "Made in China" and the expansive Chinese market are the driving forces behind the high-quality development of foreign trade. We have a complete industrial system, with scientific and technological innovations driving the continuous development of new quality productive forces. The iterative upgrading of Chinese manufacturing is providing our trade partners with more high-end, green and intelligent products. For example, our washing machines, equipped with the AI-powered "smart wash" function, can automatically detect the weight and fabric of the clothes to select the optimal washing mode. We also offer a smart cooking machine with a variety of built-in menus, enabling users to enjoy dishes that strike a perfect balance of color, aroma, taste and presentation within minutes of adding the ingredients and pressing a button. With this technology, anyone can cook like a star chef. How could smart home appliances like these not be popular? Smart home devices have revitalized the traditional home appliance industry, contributing to a 15.4% increase in China's home appliance exports compared to the previous year.

China continues to be the world's most promising market. Last year, China imported nearly 3 billion tons of bulk commodities, mechanical and electrical products worth over 7 trillion yuan, and consumer goods valued at nearly 1.8 trillion yuan, effectively meeting diverse production and consumption demands. At the same time, the doors of the Chinese market are opening wider, with an increasing number of cross-border personnel gaining easier access to enter and exit the country. This not only boosts consumption but also deepens international exchanges and cooperation, infusing vitality into international trade.

Business entities moving forward with determination have injected sustained momentum into the high-quality development of foreign trade. Just at the beginning, we noted that the last customs declaration form was submitted just before midnight on Dec. 31, 2024. This was one of more than 88 million forms submitted, each reflecting the efforts of foreign trade enterprises to overcome challenges and their dedication to hard work. It is the relentless efforts, innovative spirit, and diligent management of these enterprises that have solidified the foundation of foreign trade and further invigorated its development.

Currently, the external environment is becoming increasingly complex, characterized by growing uncertainties and instabilities. Geopolitical factors, unilateralism and protectionism pose significant challenges to the stable growth of foreign trade. At the same time, major international economic organizations predict that global goods trade will continue to grow this year. The fundamentals of China's economy — stable foundation, numerous advantages, strong resilience and significant potential — remain unchanged, and the supporting factors for promoting high-quality development in foreign trade continue to be solid. Looking ahead, customs will follow the directives of the Central Economic Work Conference, continuously improving regulatory efficiency and service levels to further promote the stable and long-term development of China's foreign trade. We will also regularly update the media on the latest developments. Thank you.

Xing Huina:

Today's press conference is hereby concluded. Please get in touch with us if you have any further questions. Thank you to Mr. Wang and the two speakers, and thank you to the media for your attention. Goodbye, everyone!

Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxuan, Gong Yingchun, Liu Jianing, Liao Jiaxin, Mi Xingang, Xu Kailin, Wang Yiming, Wang Xingguang, Zhu Bochen, Zhang Tingting, Wang Wei, Wang Qian, Li Huiru, Zhang Rui, Li Xiao, Liu Sitong, Wang Yanfang, Jay Birbeck and David Ball. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.