Photo: VCG

China's total trade with the European Union (EU) reached 3.35 trillion yuan ($465.3 billion) from January to July, marking a 3.9 percent year-on-year increase and accounting for 13 percent of the country's total foreign trade, the General Administration of Customs (GAC) said on Thursday. The data reflects the strong resilience and sustained momentum of China-EU economic ties despite mounting external challenges, a Chinese expert said.

From January to July, China's trade with Germany reached 854.88 billion yuan, up 4.3 percent year-on-year. Trade with the Netherlands stood at 455.58 billion yuan, rising 1.5 percent, while trade with France totalled 334.53 billion yuan, up 2.7 percent compared with the same period last year.

Zhang Jian, a vice president of the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations told the Global Times on Thursday that recent customs data highlights the strong resilience and steady momentum of China-EU trade. "It shows the bilateral relationship remains on a positive track despite external headwinds," he said.

He noted that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's recent remarks reflect the EU's recognition of China's importance as a key trade partner. "The stability and predictability of China-EU trade will become even more vital for Europe going forward," Zhang said.

Looking ahead, Zhang said there remains ample room for growth. "Both sides should expand openness, improve trade facilitation, and create a stable, predictable environment for mutual investment," he said.

However, he also warned of challenges. "Protectionist sentiment in the EU remains strong and could disrupt normal trade if not kept in check," he said. "Meanwhile, global trade rules are evolving, and both sides must work together to uphold openness and ensure a stable international trade order."

President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen attended the 25th China-EU Summit, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, on July 24, according to the Xinhua News Agency. 

In a post on X on July 24, Ursula von der Leyen wrote that "Touch down in Beijing, as we mark 50 years of ties between Europe and China. This Summit is the opportunity to both advance and rebalance our relationship. I'm convinced there can be a mutually beneficial cooperation. One that can define the next 50 years of our relations." 

Global Times