In July 2025, trade between China and Russia hit the highest level of the year, breaking a period of decline during the first half.
Trade Spike in July
According to data from the General Administration of Customs of China, bilateral trade between China and Russia in July amounted to $19.14 billion, an increase of 8.7% compared to June. These results were achieved after weaker figures for the first seven months of the year, when trade fell by 8.1% compared to the same period in 2024.
Import and Export Between Countries
China's imports from Russia in July were $10.1 billion, which is a 4.02% increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, Chinese exports to Russia fell by 8.91% to $9.1 billion. By the end of July, the total amount of Chinese exports was $56.23 billion, an 8.5% decrease, while imports of Russian goods fell by 7.7% to $69.57 billion.
China's Response to U.S. Threats
In recent days, Chinese authorities confirmed their commitment to importing Russian energy resources despite threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to impose new tariffs on Chinese imports. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that "it is legitimate and lawful for China to conduct normal economic, trade and energy cooperation with all countries around the world, including Russia."
Thus, despite fluctuations in international trade and pressure from the U.S., China and Russia continue to strengthen their economic ties, which portends interesting changes in the global market.
