Shanghai port reports 13% surge in automobile exports

Automobile exports from Shanghai Port reached 1.27 million units in the first half of 2025, marking a 13% year-over-year increase and accounting for 36.7% of China’s total vehicle exports, according to Shanghai Customs.

This surge highlights the port’s rapid growth in recent years, with export volumes rising from 379,000 units in 2020 to 2.39 million in 2024, an average annual increase of 58.4%.

At the center of this momentum is the Haitong International Automobile Terminal, located in the Waigaoqiao area. As one of China’s largest vehicle shipping hubs, it handled 715,000 units from January to June 2025, up 13.7% from the same period in 2024.

Shanghai Port, which connects to 131 countries and regions, now sees two to three roll-on/roll-off vessels depart daily. This global reach, combined with efficient logistics, is accelerating the export of China-made vehicles to international markets.

Shanghai Customs attributes the strong performance to improved logistics and faster customs clearance. Innovations such as appointment-based vessel scheduling and "green channels" for priority shipments have significantly reduced turnaround times.

These measures are part of a broader national strategy, aligned with China’s Belt and Road Initiative and efforts to modernize trade infrastructure. The Haitong terminal launched in 2018 and expanded in 2022 has become a vital node in this network, boosting China’s auto export capabilities.

Shanghai International Port (Group) Co., Ltd. (SIPG), the state-run entity managing the port, oversees key terminals including Waigaoqiao and Yangshan. It plays a central role in optimizing logistics and trade flows across the port complex. Listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, SIPG partners with private firms to manage specialized terminals like Haitong.

Meanwhile, Shanghai Customs ensures compliance and efficiency in port operations, handling customs duties, trade inspections, and quarantine controls, all crucial for sustaining high-volume exports.

With these strategic investments and improvements, Shanghai Port continues to strengthen its position as a global gateway for Chinese automobiles.