China's exports accelerated to 19.4% growth in May compared to the same month last year, according to data released Tuesday by the country's customs agency. The stronger-than-expected performance improved from April's 14.1% year-over-year increase.

Imports also showed robust growth, jumping 27.4% in May at a faster pace than April's 25.3% expansion. The combined trade data resulted in China's trade surplus reaching $105.4 billion for the month.

The export surge was primarily driven by demand for artificial intelligence-related hardware, semiconductors, and technology products. Semiconductor exports more than doubled year-over-year by value, while automotive exports rose almost 40%. China's largest electric vehicle manufacturer BYD reported selling more than 160,600 vehicles abroad in May, an 80% increase from the previous year.

Exports to the United States showed particularly strong growth, surging more than 35% from the year before - the strongest pace since early 2021. This marked a significant improvement from April's 11% increase. The growth represents a rebound after Chinese shipments to the U.S. had fallen sharply following the implementation of new tariffs in April 2025.

Analysts attributed the export strength to the global artificial intelligence boom and increasing worldwide adoption of green technology. The performance comes as China has set an economic growth target of 4.5% to 5% for 2026, slightly below the previous year's goal and the slowest expansion target since 1991.

Economists noted that the strong export performance should help China stay on track to meet its full-year growth objectives, with exports serving as what one analyst called a "shock-absorber" for the economy amid global energy price volatility.