In 2025, China marked a significant transition in its export composition, with telecom, computer, and information services surpassing traditional goods like footwear and handbags, signaling the nation's move toward higher-value technology exports.
- Technology service exports hit $118 billion in 2025, growing 13% YoY
- Traditional goods like footwear and handbags saw export declines
- Chinese firms export AI and industrial tech globally, cutting client costs
What happened
In 2025, China's exports in telecoms, computer, and information services reached 808 billion yuan (about $118 billion), showing a strong year-on-year increase of 13 percent. This growth outpaced traditional export categories such as footwear, which declined by 9 percent to $46 billion, and handbags and suitcases, which collectively dropped 13 percent to $30 billion.
This data highlights a clear structural shift in China’s export economy. The country is no longer primarily seen as a source of low-cost manufactured goods but is rapidly emerging as a leader in technology exports, especially in fields related to industrial AI, computer vision, and information communication technology services.
Why it matters
China’s rising export strength in tech and service sectors reflects its strategic efforts to move up the global industrial chain. This transition signifies a more sustainable and innovation-driven growth model, shifting away from reliance on traditional manufacturing exports which have faced global competition and market saturation.
The expansion into areas such as AI-driven industrial solutions and telecom services also signals increased global integration of Chinese technology firms. By delivering advanced service platforms that improve operational efficiency for international clients, China is establishing itself as a dependable partner in the evolving global tech ecosystem.
What to watch next
Industry observers should track how Chinese tech exporters expand their international client bases and form strategic partnerships worldwide. For example, firms like Guangzhou-based iRootech have already impacted foreign clients by deploying AI platforms that reduce maintenance costs and improve equipment reliability.
Additionally, monitoring policy developments and investment trends related to China’s tech and service sectors will be critical to understanding how this shift influences global trade dynamics, especially in emerging technology domains such as data analytics, R&D services, and construction management solutions.