In the complex chessboard of global economic recovery, China's manufacturing sector continues to play an increasingly vital role. Dongguan, Guangdong—once known primarily as the "world's factory"—is demonstrating remarkable resilience and vitality in foreign trade. The city's import-export data for the first two months of 2025 has emerged like spring thunder, injecting confidence into global trade networks. These figures represent more than mere numerical growth; they illustrate China's ongoing economic transformation.
Strong Trade Performance Across Sectors
According to the latest data from Huangpu Customs, Dongguan's total import-export value reached 228.38 billion yuan during January-February 2025, marking a 21.7% year-on-year increase . Exports grew by 12.6% to 138.53 billion yuan, while imports surged 39% to 89.85 billion yuan. This robust performance establishes a solid foundation for the city's annual trade outlook.
Regional Trade: ASEAN Emerges as Growth Engine
Dongguan's trade expansion reflects deepening integration with global partners. Trade with ASEAN nations grew most dramatically at 57.4% year-on-year , highlighting how the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement is accelerating regional trade integration and creating opportunities in Southeast Asian markets.
The city also recorded growth with other major economies including Hong Kong, the United States, the European Union, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea—with the latter two showing over 25% increases. Collectively, these seven regions accounted for 75% of Dongguan's total trade volume, demonstrating balanced market diversification.
Private Enterprises Drive Innovation
Private companies have become the backbone of Dongguan's trade expansion, with their import-export value reaching 146.1 billion yuan ( 34.2% growth ) and constituting 64% of the city's total trade. Their flexible operations and rapid market responsiveness enable effective adaptation to global demand shifts, while continuous innovation in technology and product development sustains long-term competitiveness.
Evolving Trade Patterns
General trade grew 38.6% to represent 50.6% of total trade, reflecting enhanced branding and marketing capabilities among local firms. Processing trade maintained steady 3.8% growth at 24.3% share, while bonded logistics grew 13.3%, indicating improved customs efficiency and trade facilitation measures.
Export Composition Shifts Toward High-Tech
Dongguan's export portfolio shows increasing sophistication, with integrated circuits, electrical equipment, computers/parts, and smartphones all recording growth—the latter surging 56.3% year-on-year. Traditional strengths remain competitive, with household appliances growing 12.9% and textile yarns up 10.2%.
This strong start to 2025 results from both global economic recovery and Dongguan's industrial transformation. Maintaining momentum will require continued reforms, innovation investment, and market diversification to strengthen the city's position in global value chains.