China's Top 10 Export Commodities in 2024: Electromechanical Products Lead, Structure Optimization Seen
According to China Customs data, the top 10 export commodity categories in 2024 accounted for 68% of total exports, with electrical machinery and mechanical appliances dominating, reflecting manufacturing upgrade trends.
Overview of China's Export Commodity Structure in 2024
In 2024, China's total exports reached $3.38 trillion, up 5.5% year-on-year. The top 10 export commodity categories (by HS 2-digit code) totaled approximately $2.30 trillion, accounting for 68.0% of total exports.
Ranking and Key Points
- 1st: Electrical Machinery & Equipment (HS85) – $820 billion (24.3% share), covering smartphones, ICs, etc.
- 2nd: Nuclear Reactors, Boilers, Machinery (HS84) – $520 billion (15.4%), mainly general machinery and automation equipment.
- 3rd: Furniture, Bedding (HS94) – $180 billion (5.3%), supported by overseas housing demand.
- 4th: Plastics & Articles (HS39) – $120 billion (3.6%).
- 5th: Articles of Iron or Steel (HS73) – $100 billion (3.0%).
- 6th: Vehicles & Parts (HS87) – $95 billion (2.8%), with notable NEV export growth.
- 7th: Textile & Apparel (HS61-62) – $90 billion (2.7%), remaining resilient.
- 8th: Toys & Games (HS95) – $65 billion (1.9%).
- 9th: Footwear (HS64) – $55 billion (1.6%).
- 10th: Optical & Medical Instruments (HS90) – $50 billion (1.5%).
Trend Insights
Electromechanical products (HS84+85) together account for nearly 40% of exports, reflecting China's shift from labor-intensive to technology-intensive manufacturing. Traditional sectors like furniture and textiles slowly lose share, while new energy-related products (e.g., EVs, batteries) show rapid growth despite not entering the top 10. The data indicate ongoing export structure optimization, but risks from global trade friction and demand fluctuations remain.
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