China’s import growth accelerated sharply in February 2026, with inbound shipments rising 19.8% year-over-year, according to data updated on 10 March 2026. The figure marks a substantial jump from the previous reported increase of 5.7% year-over-year recorded in December 2025.
The data are based on year-over-year comparisons, with the current reading reflecting the change in imports in February 2026 versus February a year earlier. The previous figure similarly compared December 2025 imports with their level a year before. The latest numbers signal a strong upswing in China’s import activity, suggesting a notable shift in external demand conditions or domestic consumption and production needs over the early part of 2026.
Market participants will be watching subsequent releases closely to assess whether February’s surge represents the start of a sustained trend in China’s trade dynamics or a short-term spike in import activity.
