China's foreign trade has sustained steady growth so far this year, with exports reaching 24.46 trillion yuan (about 3.46 trillion U.S. dollars) in the first 11 months of this year, a year-on-year increase of 6.2 percent, according to the latest official data released by the General Administration of Customs (GAC) on Monday.
The GAC data highlighted the growth in exports of high-tech and green low-carbon products. A notable example of export growth has been manifested by the operation of Shandong Sanju Bioenergy, a bioenergy company in Rizhao City, east China's Shandong Province. The company is capable of processing waste oil into aviation fuel that meets stringent industry standards, achieving a perfect balance between environmental protection and economic benefit.
The company has expanded its business to a wide range of overseas markets. Recently, a shipment of 2,625 tons of bio-aviation fuel is set to depart from the Rizhao Port bound for The Netherlands.
"The bio-aviation fuel we produce is made from waste vegetable oils and animal fats, including gutter oil. It can be blended with conventional jet fuel in any proportion. Aircraft can use our fuel directly without requiring engine modifications. [Compared to traditional jet fuel,] it reduces full life-cycle carbon emissions by 80 to 85 percent, delivering substantial environmental benefits," said Wang Beihai, assistant general manager of Shandong Sanju Bioenergy Co., Ltd.
Producing bio-aviation fuel is a key pathway for achieving carbon neutrality goals in aviation. Currently, many countries have launched mandatory standards of blending ratios for sustainable aviation fuel into their policies.
In April, a "white list" mechanism for the compliant export of bio-aviation fuel was jointly introduced by four central government agencies, including the Ministry of Commerce and the GAC. Eligible companies can apply for export licenses within their approved production capacities. This measure removes a key institutional barrier, clearing the way for the compliant and smooth export of bio-aviation fuel.
Even with policy support, product exports still face challenges including tight delivery schedules, uncertain shipping plans, and slow tanker consolidation. Therefore, customs authorities and other departments have responded with facilitative measures to help ensure smooth operation of exports.
"Bio-aviation fuel is classified as a hazardous chemical. Companies are now permitted to deliver their products to port storage tanks in advance. After inspection, the fuel can be loaded via pipelines for shipment according to the delivery schedule. This helps avoid delays in meeting deadlines. In the first 11 months of this year, Shandong Province exported nearly 200,000 tons of green biomass energy products, representing a year-on-year increase of nearly 100 percent," said Ji Qiyong, section chief of the third inspection division of the Rizhao Customs
China's trade sector has been actively adapting to global demand for low-carbon solutions, continuously optimizing its export structure. By leveraging technologies to enhance product value, the country is forging a path of high-quality global expansion.
In addition, Chinese companies' keen market insights are opening up new areas for export growth.
"The resilience of China's export trade stems from a steadfast commitment to innovation and green development, which is concretely reflected in our ability to consistently meet the world's diverse needs with high-quality products. Currently, during the peak season for winter sports in the Northern Hemisphere, China's exports of ice skates to Central and Eastern Europe and ski wear to North America have both seen double-digit growth since the start of the second half of the year," said Lyu Daliang, director of the GAC's Department of Statistics and Analysis.
China's exports up 6.2 percent in first 11 months
