China’s Exports Rise Sharply by 8.3% in September, Defying Tariff Pressures; Aussie Dollar Gains While Hong Kong Stocks Dip
October 13, 2025 – By Bob Mason
China’s export industry shows strength this September. Shipments jumped by 8.3% from last year. That jump marks the fastest rise in half a year. The increase eases fears linked to tariffs set by the Trump administration. Strong trade numbers pushed up the Aussie dollar. Meanwhile, stock markets in Hong Kong and mainland China fell as US–China tension stayed high.
Robust Export Growth Exceeds Expectations
Officials released new data on Monday. Exports climbed 8.3% in September. In August, exports had risen only 4.4%. Experts had expected a 6% rise. Imports also grew by 7.4%. In August, imports had grown by just 1.3%. New data shows that trade is moving fast. The rise also fits with other proof from manufacturing. The RatingDog Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index went up to 51.2 from 50.5 in August. New export orders increased for the first time since March. This shows that makers are switching shipments away from US demand amid tariff disputes.
Market Reactions: Currency Strength and Equity Market Caution
The trade report set off mixed market moves. The Aussie dollar rose. It went from $0.65246 before the data to a high near $0.65292, and closed at $0.65278—up about 0.83%. Before the report, it had already gained 0.79%. The close economic ties between Australia and China make this shift clear. China accounts for roughly one-third of Australia’s exports, which matters a lot. In contrast, stock markets did not match the strength. The Hang Seng Index dropped 2.42% to 25,655 in Monday’s morning session. Mainland indices fell too: the CSI 300 lost 1.27%, and the Shanghai Composite slid 0.98%. Investor worry stayed high following last week’s changes amid trade talks.
Outlook: Inflation Data, Trade Tensions, and the APEC Summit in Focus
Market watchers keep a close gaze on US–China trade talks. They focus on a meeting scheduled from October 31 to November 1 under the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation banner. Leaders from the US and China may meet. They might show progress or hint at more disputes. Traders now also wait for China’s inflation report set for October 15. Economists see a slowdown in deflation for September. This news may boost market risk and push up interest in risk-sensitive assets like the Aussie dollar and regional stocks. If trade tension grows, markets may react by dropping further. If disputes cool off, the mood among investors may improve.
Summary
- China’s exports grew 8.3% in September, the fastest in six months.
- Imports rose by 7.4%, far above expectations.
- The Aussie dollar climbed on strong trade data from China.
- Hong Kong and mainland Chinese stock indices fell amid US–China trade tensions.
- Upcoming inflation data and the APEC meeting will guide market moves.
About the Author
Bob Mason brings over 28 years of financial market experience, in currencies, commodities, and global equities, with a focus on European and Asian markets.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Readers should conduct their own research and consult professional advisors before making investment decisions.
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