China’s Economy Grows 5.2 Percent in First Three Quarters of 2025

China’s economic performance in 2025 was shaped by robust export activity, which helped the country achieve growth targets despite ongoing challenges in domestic consumption and property investment.

The National Bureau of Statistics reported that China’s economy expanded by 5.2 percent year-on-year during the first three quarters of 2025. This growth rate was in line with the government’s target, which had been set at around 5 percent during the National People’s Congress in March 2025.

Exports played a key role in supporting China’s economy throughout the year. While domestic demand remained subdued, strong overseas shipments, particularly to markets outside the United States, contributed to a record trade surplus of nearly $1.2 trillion in 2025.

Industrial output and export activity remained stable in the latter part of the year, even as consumer spending and property sector investment continued to lag. The resilience of these sectors helped offset some of the impact from weaker areas of the economy.

What the numbers show

• China’s GDP increased by 5.2% year-on-year in the first three quarters of 2025
• The official GDP growth target for 2025 was set at about 5%
• China recorded a trade surplus close to $1.2 trillion in 2025

Despite the positive contribution from exports and industry, several indicators reflected ongoing challenges in the domestic market. Retail sales and fixed-asset investment underperformed during 2025, highlighting persistent weakness in consumer and business spending within China.

The property market continued to face difficulties throughout the year. Both new construction starts and overall property investment experienced notable declines, further weighing on domestic economic activity.

China’s export sector managed to remain strong even as U.S. tariffs affected trade with American partners. Increased shipments to other international markets played a critical role in maintaining overall economic momentum and supporting the country’s trade balance.

Looking at the year as a whole, China’s economic growth in 2025 was driven by external demand and manufacturing resilience. Domestic sectors such as retail and real estate, however, continued to show signs of strain, shaping the broader picture of the country’s economic landscape for the year.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.