China-ASEAN Trade Hits $597 Billion in 7 Months

Trade between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) climbed to US$597 billion in the first seven months of this year, reflecting an 8.2 percent year-on-year increase, according to VNA in partnership with TV BRICS.

The figure underscores the strength of one of the world’s most dynamic regional trade relationships.

This volume accounted for 16.7 percent of China’s total foreign trade during the period, confirming the growing significance of ASEAN in Beijing’s external economic strategy.

Analysts highlight that China has remained ASEAN’s top trading partner for sixteen consecutive years, while ASEAN has consistently been China’s largest trading partner for the past five years.

Bilateral exchanges with key ASEAN members have grown remarkably. Last year, trade with Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand each exceeded US$100 billion, with Vietnam and Malaysia surpassing the US$200 billion mark, signaling the depth of regional integration and economic interdependence.

Experts believe this trajectory will further cement China-ASEAN trade as a cornerstone of Asia’s economic growth, creating expanded opportunities for investment, industrial cooperation, and supply chain resilience.