China’s economic growth has shown a renewed momentum in the third quarter of 2026, as the artificial intelligence (AI) has helped boost exports.
It reports that its economy has grown by 4.5%, up from the previous period but below the 5% expansion recorded from January to March, according to official Chinese data.
China’s technology is sustaining the economic performance, with factories across the country ramping up production of AI-related hardware and software, fueling exports to global markets.
According to China’s National Bureau of Statistics, the economy “sustained steady development against pressure” and showed “momentum with new growth drivers and improving structure”.
It also stated the amount of goods and services it sells abroad compared to what it buys from other countries is on track to overtake the record $1.2 trillion seen last year.
Sales of high-tech goods rose by 14.3% while the production of both batteries and industrial robots grew by more than 29%.
Economists have cautioned reliance on exports alone may not be sustainable, but the domestic sectors such as housing and retail continue to struggle, raising questions about the long-term stability of growth.
Yet the AI boom has undeniably shifted the narrative, positioning China as a key driver of technological exports.
For international partners, the surge in AI exports highlights both opportunity and competition, as nations grapple with the transformative power of artificial intelligence.
