Trade between Russia and China contracted in 2025 for the first time in five years, reflecting weaker demand for Chinese vehicle exports to Russia and a decline in the value of Russian crude shipped to China.
China’s General Administration of Customs said total two-way trade reached $228.1 billion in 2025, down 6.9% from the record $244.8 billion posted in 2024. The drop ended four consecutive years of expansion in bilateral commerce and signaled a cooling in momentum between the two economies. The Moscow Times reported this latest development today.
Chinese exports to Russia fell 9.9% year-on-year _ most of the decline, 46% was noted in vehicle shipments between January and November, as consumer demand weakened and competition intensified. At the same time, Chinese imports from Russia slipped 3.4%, largely because falling global oil prices reduced the value of energy purchases.
December rebound offers limited relief
Despite the annual contraction, trade flows showed signs of recovery at the end of the year. In December, Chinese exports to Russia rose 2.2%, while imports from Russia jumped 17.1%, suggesting improving short-term momentum. Analysts said the late-year rebound may reflect seasonal demand and adjustments in pricing, rather than a sustained trend.
China and Russia have deepened political and economic cooperation since President Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Both governments continue to describe their relationship as a “no limits” partnership while coordinating against Western pressure.
Globally, China’s trade performance remained strong. Customs data showed total trade reached a record $6.48 trillion in 2025, up 3.8%. Exports increased 6.1%, driven mainly by non-U.S. markets, while imports edged up only 0.5%.
