China hits US$1 trillion trade surplus as reserves lag

China's trade surplus has surpassed the US$1 trillion mark in the first 11 months of the year, yet growth in its official foreign exchange reserves has lagged behind, prompting questions about where the money has gone.

Recent data on China's external accounts reveal a record-breaking trade surplus exceeding US$1 trillion in the first 11 months of the year. This milestone underscores the strength of its exports, but the growth in official foreign exchange reserves has not matched pace, creating a conundrum.

The paradox raises a key question: where has all that money gone? While China's economy remains robust, the lag in reserve accumulation could point to intricate financial channels or policy decisions at play.

This development highlights China's dominant role in global trade while alerting investors to possible economic imbalances.

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Illustration showing South Korea's October current account surplus dip due to Chuseok holiday against record 10-month high, with graphs, port, and festive elements.
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South Korea's October current account surplus narrows sharply

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South Korea's current account surplus narrowed sharply in October due to fewer working days from the Chuseok holiday, central bank data showed. Exports fell amid the extended break, but the cumulative surplus for the first 10 months hit a record high.

China's exports rose 5.5 percent in 2025 to US$3.77 trillion, while imports stayed flat at US$2.58 trillion, yielding a record trade surplus of US$1.19 trillion. The performance beat forecasts despite trade headwinds, fueled by diversification into markets like Asean and Africa. Officials attribute the strong results to supportive policies and the country's industrial depth.

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Critics’ concerns about China’s industrial overcapacity overlook the broader picture of the country’s balance of payments. While China maintains a surplus in goods trade, it is offset by significant deficits in services and investment income. This balanced approach points to a more nuanced economic exchange rather than simple dumping of excess production.

China's onshore yuan closed at its strongest level since May 2023, trading at 7.0066 per dollar, amid a weakening US dollar. This development, typically bullish for bitcoin, has not lifted the cryptocurrency, which lingers below $90,000. Factors like thin year-end liquidity and ETF outflows are muting the expected rally.

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China's retail sales grew by just 1.3 percent in November, missing forecasts and slowing for the sixth straight month. Investment from January to November fell 2.6 percent as the property slump persisted. Officials recognize ongoing challenges and urge more proactive macroeconomic policies.

Purchases of the U.S. dollar have lessened in South Korea following a surge late last year prompted by expectations of further Korean won weakening, industry sources said. The trend reversal stems from foreign exchange authorities' stabilization measures, including temporary capital gains tax exemptions.

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Hong Kong's finance chief Paul Chan has confirmed an early operating account surplus, driven by strong financial markets, and vowed more support for the elderly. Speaking at a public forum, he addressed welfare demands while noting that social spending was not cut despite last year's deficit.

 

 

 

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