China-CEEC Trade Rises 11% in First Half, Customs Data Shows
Trade between China and Central and Eastern European countries (CEEC) increased by 11% year-on-year in the first half of the year, reaching 580.12 billion yuan. This marks a continuation of a decade-long growth trend, according to customs data.
Trade between China and the Central and Eastern European countries (CEEC) region grew by 11% year-on-year in the first half of the year, totaling 580.12 billion yuan (approximately US$85.57 billion), according to official customs figures. This sustained growth marks the continuation of a trend observed over the past decade.
Lyu Daliang, spokesperson for the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC), stated at a press conference that the accumulated trade value for the six-month period was 3.7 times that of the first half of 2012. He attributed this expansion to increasing Chinese investments in the region, citing examples such as vehicle production and research facilities established by Chinese companies in Serbia and Poland, as well as battery plants in Hungary.
The automotive sector saw significant activity, with trade in vehicles and auto parts between China and CEEC countries reaching 59.53 billion yuan in the first half. Trade in lithium-ion batteries amounted to 30.01 billion yuan. Cooperation has also extended into artificial intelligence, with joint development of a humanoid robot production facility between Chinese entities and Serbia.
Infrastructure projects associated with China's Belt and Road Initiative have played a role in boosting trade by enhancing regional connectivity. New construction projects undertaken by Chinese firms in countries like Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina have consequently increased demand for Chinese construction materials and equipment. Exports of construction machinery and rail transit equipment saw increases of 22.3% and 57.3%, respectively.
Agricultural and food trade also experienced substantial growth, supported by intensified cooperation on quarantine and food safety measures. Over 130 types of agricultural and food products from CEEC countries have received approval for import into China. Bilateral agricultural trade reached 7.58 billion yuan, a 16.2% increase, with agricultural imports from the region growing by 34.8%.