China’s May Exports Beat Forecasts at 19.4% but Show Signs of Fading Stockpiling
Customs data released Tuesday showed stronger-than-expected growth in shipments of chips, autos and other high-tech goods. The figures come as energy price shocks from the Iran conflict weigh on broader demand.
thehindu.comU.S. dollar value terms in May, customs data showed on Tuesday. 1% gain recorded in April and the 15% rise forecast by economists.
The growth was driven by robust demand for chips, autos and other high-tech goods tied to the global AI boom. A surge in global AI investment has helped the world’s top manufacturer offset the export hit many had expected from the Middle East turmoil. Signs are emerging that stockpiling linked to higher energy costs is fading.
Prices are rising and overseas buyers are starting to run down inventories as they hold out for a ceasefire. Gantry cranes stood near stacked shipping containers at Yangshan Port outside Shanghai on May 7. The customs data on May exports was released from Beijing on June 9, 2026.
