Russia-China Trade Surpasses $134.2 Billion in First Half of 2026, Official Data Shows
Russia and China’s bilateral trade reached $134.2 billion in the first half of 2026, marking a 25.6% year-on-year increase, according to data cited by Russia’s trade mission in China. The figures, released on Tuesday, highlight a rebound in economic ties after a decline in 2025, driven by reduced Chinese vehicle exports and lower Russian oil revenues.
Russian Exports to China Rise 23.3% to $73.6 Billion
Russian exports to China grew 23.3% in January–June 2026, totaling $73.6 billion, while imports from China surged 28.4% to $60.6 billion, according to the Russian trade mission. This resulted in a trade surplus for Russia, reinforcing its role as China’s largest trading partner. The growth follows a 2025 downturn, when bilateral trade fell for the first time in five years, as reported by China’s General Administration of Customs.
Putin Highlights Trade Momentum Amid Geopolitical Shifts
President Vladimir Putin recently claimed a “steady” 10% rise in bilateral trade, citing improved economic cooperation. During a meeting with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin emphasized efforts to sustain the upward trend. The statement aligns with broader efforts to deepen the “no-limits” partnership between the two nations since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which has accelerated their economic integration.
China’s Overall Trade Expands 21.2% to $3.67 Trillion
China’s foreign trade grew 21.2% in H1 2026, reaching $3.67 trillion, with exports rising 17.6% to $2.13 trillion and imports climbing 26.6% to $1.55 trillion, according to official customs data. The figures reflect sustained global demand for Chinese goods, even as Russia pivots toward Asian markets amid Western sanctions.
Energy Exports Drive Russia’s Trade Growth
Russia’s reliance on China as an energy buyer has intensified since Western markets restricted its oil and gas exports. This shift underscores the strategic realignment of Russia’s trade networks, with China increasingly serving as a counterweight to Western economic pressure.
Contextualizing the Growth: A Post-2025 Recovery
That downturn was attributed to reduced Chinese automotive exports and waning Russian oil revenues. The current growth suggests improved coordination between the two nations, though challenges remain, including Western sanctions and global market volatility.
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