By Jin Lu

Ningbo's trade with Central and Eastern European countries reached 15.29 billion yuan in the first quarter of 2025, a 19.8% year-on-year increase, according to data released by Ningbo Customs on April 22. Exports totaled 11.95 billion yuan, marking a 25.8% year-on-year rise, while imports amounted to 3.34 billion yuan, up 2.3%.

Electromechanical products led Ningbo's exports to the region, accounting for 7.88 billion yuan of the total, a 22.6% increase from Q1 of 2024. Top items in this category include household appliances, electrical equipment, and auto parts.

Timber and wood products were Ningbo's primary imports from Central and Eastern Europe, with a significant 57.6% year-on-year increase, totaling 120 million yuan in the first quarter. The region's abundant forest resources and established timber industry align well with China's demand.

This year marks the 13th anniversary of the China-Central and Eastern Europe cooperation mechanism. Ningbo Customs reports that trade between Ningbo and CEE countries has grown notably, from 12.51 billion yuan in 2012 to 56.13 billion yuan in 2024.

From May 22 to 25, Ningbo will host the 4th China-Central and Eastern European Countries Expo and International Consumer Goods Expo. As the countdown to the event enters its final month, government and business leaders are hoping for even deeper two-way cooperation.