August 9, 2025
5 min read
Luc Jose Adjinacou
Beijing And Moscow Boost Trade Amid US Tariff Threats
In July, trade between China and Russia surged to $19.14 billion, marking an annual record that stands in contrast to the subdued performance in the first half of the year. This rebound occurs as the United States, under Donald Trump's administration, continues to implement tariff threats, notably sanctioning India for its Russian oil purchases.In brief
- Trade between China and Russia reached $19.14 billion in July, an annual record following a declining semester.
- Chinese imports from Russia increased, while exports to Moscow decreased.
- Donald Trump threatened Beijing with potential 25% tariffs, referencing its Russian oil purchases.
- China asserted its right to engage in free trade and protect its energy security.
- Chinese imports from Russia amounted to $10.1 billion in July, a year-on-year increase of 4.02%.
- Chinese exports to Russia were $9.1 billion, a year-on-year decrease of 8.91%.
- Russia maintained a trade surplus of $13.34 billion from January to July, a level consistent with the previous year.
- In recent history, total exchanges reached $240.11 billion in 2023 (a 26.3% increase) and a record of over $244 billion in 2024. While this monthly rebound indicates resilience, it has not yet fully offset the accumulated deficit from the first half of the year. This development reflects an evolving trade landscape influenced by seasonal factors, logistical adjustments, and a complex geopolitical environment.
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Bilateral trade: an annual peak after a gloomy start to the year
As markets experienced significant fluctuations following previous tariff announcements, trade exchanges between China and Russia, both key members of the BRICS bloc, saw a substantial increase in July, reaching $19.14 billion. This figure represents an 8.7% rise compared to June, according to data from the Chinese General Administration of Customs. This positive July trend concludes a seven-month period of decline, during which bilateral exchanges totaled $125.8 billion, reflecting an 8.1% decrease year-on-year. Detailed data reveals:Beijing challenges Washington on the energy front
The release of these trade figures coincides with Donald Trump’s indications that China could face tariffs similar to those imposed on India for its Russian oil purchases. Despite these pressures, Beijing has maintained its stance. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that "it is legitimate and legal for China to conduct normal economic, trade, and energy cooperation with all countries in the world, including Russia." Chinese authorities further emphasized their commitment to taking "reasonable energy security measures in line with their national interests." Russia remains a crucial energy supplier for China, reinforcing trade partnerships within the BRICS framework. In 2024, Moscow supplied 108.5 million tons of oil to Beijing, accounting for nearly one-fifth of China's total crude imports. For the first seven months of this year, estimates suggest 32 million tons of oil were delivered, a decrease of 4 million tons compared to the same period last year. Beyond oil, Russia's exports to China include coal, natural gas, and raw materials such as copper and wood. In return, China exports manufactured goods ranging from automobiles to smartphones. China's firm position against American tariff threats underscores its determination to secure energy supplies and strengthen its partnership with Moscow. While the July trade peak suggests a degree of resilience, the ongoing evolution of trade barriers and energy flow dynamics will shape future developments.Source: Beijing And Moscow Boost Trade Amid US Tariff Threats