Jinan's foreign trade maintained strong momentum from January to April 2026, with total imports and exports reaching 101.37 billion yuan ($14.9 billion), a 27.7 percent increase year-on-year – the fastest growth rate in Shandong province.

Exports rose 33 percent to 66.14 billion yuan, while imports increased 18.7 percent to 35.23 billion yuan. In April, the city's foreign trade volume climbed to a yearly high of 26.8 billion yuan.

Private enterprises were the main driving force behind the city's foreign trade expansion. During these first four months, 6,051 private firms generated 57.53 billion yuan, accounting for 56.8 percent of the city's total foreign trade value. In addition, 10 enterprises, each with imports and exports volumes exceeding 1 billion yuan, contributed a combined 48.95 billion yuan, significantly supporting overall growth.

Jinan also continued to diversify its international markets and strengthen trade ties with emerging markets. Trade with ASEAN countries reached 18.99 billion yuan during the period, while trade with Africa increased 66.1 percent, reaching 16.61 billion yuan. Trade with countries involved in the Belt and Road initiative rose 24.9 percent to 63.5 billion yuan.

Mechanical and electrical products remained the city's leading export category, with exports rising 41.2 percent to 47.24 billion yuan, accounting for more than 70 percent of total exports. Imports were mainly driven by demand for bulk commodities, including machinery and electrical equipment, metal ores, and agricultural products.

Editor：Cao Xiaoxu