About 20 million containers moved through Chinese ports, up over 6% year-on-year, suggesting the Iran war’s aftershocks have yet to become a serious drag on trade despite higher oil prices.
The rise cooled from a 12% gain in the first nine weeks of 2026, but demand tied to AI infrastructure such as data centers and power equipment is likely supporting shipments.
South Korea’s exports to China jumped 69%, while its overall semiconductor sales abroad surged 164%.
Net exports contributed almost a third of its economic expansion last year, but higher oil and input costs could still squeeze factory margins if disrupts occur.
🔗 Source: Bloomberg
Originally written by: Naomi Li Gan
Source: Tech in Asia
Published on: 25 March 2026
Link to original article: China trade holds up as AI demand supports shipments
