Xiamen Port is a key hub for Fujian's trade with other RCEP member countries. [ZHANG JINGANG/FOR CHINA DAILY]

Trade between Fujian province and member states of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) reached 154.39 billion yuan ($22.64 billion) in the first quarter of 2026, a 4.9 percent year-on-year increase, accounting for 32.2 percent of the province's total foreign trade from January through March.

Fujian's exports to RCEP partners grew 2.5 percent to 79.69 billion yuan, representing 29.6 percent of the province's total exports. Imports rose 7.6 percent to 74.7 billion yuan, making up 35.6 percent of the province's total imports.

Private enterprises were the main growth driver, with their trade volume with RCEP members increasing 9.8 percent to 96.5 billion yuan, accounting for over 60 percent of the provincial total with the bloc. Foreign-invested companies also saw a 9.8 percent increase to 31.23 billion yuan, while state-owned enterprises contributed 26.52 billion yuan.

Indonesia and Australia remained Fujian's top trading partners within RCEP, with trade reaching 30.31 billion yuan and 24.32 billion yuan respectively, accounting for 35.4 percent of the province's RCEP trade. Trade with South Korea surged 38.5 percent to 15.2 billion yuan.

Mechanical and electrical products continued to lead exports, rising 12.6 percent to 33.9 billion yuan. Imports of bulk commodities totaled 25.99 billion yuan, representing 34.8 percent of RCEP-sourced goods. Imports of mechanical and electrical products grew significantly by 42.6 percent to 12.67 billion yuan, making up 17 percent of total imports from member countries.