China’s Export Resilience and EV Expansion Amid Trade Tensions

China's export sector continues to defy expectations, posting a 5.8% year-on-year increase in June despite escalating global protectionism. The surge comes as exporters rush to fulfill orders ahead of new U.S. tariffs set for August. While shipments to America fell sharply, Southeast Asian demand propelled China to a record $586 billion trade surplus for H1. Analysts caution this front-loading effect may be short-lived as Washington prepares targeted sectoral duties.

Meanwhile, Chinese EV makers are making strategic inroads in Europe, with Norway serving as a critical beachhead. Brands like BYD, XPeng, and SAIC's MG now command 10% of Norway's EV market — a notable achievement given Tesla's dominance. Competitive pricing, sleek designs, and advanced tech are winning over European consumers, even as trade tensions reshape global automotive supply chains.