Weifang's foreign trade hits record highs in first three quarters

Weifang's foreign trade maintained strong momentum in the first three quarters of 2025, reaching an all-time high. Total imports and exports rose to 276.44 billion yuan ($38.8 billion), marking a six percent year-on-year increase. Exports climbed 5.7 percent to 188.56 billion yuan, while imports rose 6.6 percent to 87.88 billion yuan.

Private enterprises continue to drive this growth. Nearly 7,000 companies were active in import and export operations during the period, up more than 10 percent from a year earlier. These private firms accounted for 95.9 percent of all trading entities and contributed 85.8 percent of total trade value, generating 237.13 billion yuan in combined imports and exports.

Weifang's global reach is expanding steadily. The ASEAN region and South Korea remained the top two partners, posting trade values of 66.79 billion yuan and 34.2 billion yuan, up seven percent and 10 percent respectively. Trade with Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa increased by 21.9 percent, 23.4 percent, and 38.5 percent, highlighting the city's growing presence in emerging markets.

The city's export structure is also evolving. Mechanical and electrical products led the way, reaching 91.56 billion yuan, up 10.5 percent and accounting for nearly half of total exports. Key products such as diesel engines, agricultural machinery, and generators saw significant growth, reflecting Weifang's strong industrial base and rising global competitiveness.

Traditional exports like agricultural goods, rubber tires, and furniture maintained steady growth, while emerging products demonstrated rapid expansion. Trade in amino acids, tire molds, loudspeakers, and aluminum profiles rose by roughly 30 percent, underscoring Weifang's successful shift toward innovation-driven, high-quality, and resilient trade development.

With robust private enterprises, a diversified global presence, and a growing focus on innovative products, Weifang continues to cement its status as one of Shandong's most dynamic trading hubs, setting the stage for sustained growth in the years ahead.