In the first three quarters, the total value of Xinjiang’s foreign trade imports and exports increased by nearly 30% year-on-year.

On October 24, the Urumqi Customs office reported significant growth in Xinjiang’s foreign trade during the first three quarters of this year, with a total import and export value reaching 322.39 billion yuan (approximately $46.4 billion). This marks a year-on-year increase of 29%. Exports accounted for 272.78 billion yuan, reflecting a growth of 29.6%, while imports totaled 49.61 billion yuan, up by 26.1%.

These figures indicate that Xinjiang’s foreign trade has reached a historical high, showcasing a trend of “steady volume, improved quality, and growing momentum,” with its national share remaining stable.

During the same period, Xinjiang engaged in trade with 207 countries and regions. Kazakhstan emerged as its largest trading partner, with an import and export value that increased by 24.4%, representing 39% of Xinjiang’s total foreign trade volume. Trade with countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative saw an impressive rise of 25.8%, while exports and imports with other RCEP member states skyrocketed by 223.7%.

The first three quarters also highlighted the vital roles of free trade zones and comprehensive bonded zones in driving Xinjiang’s foreign trade growth. The combined import and export volume from the China (Xinjiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone reached 130.49 billion yuan, while the four comprehensive bonded zones in Kashgar, Horgos, Alashankou, and Urumqi saw an aggregate import and export value of 132.6 billion yuan, growing by 28.7%.

In terms of businesses involved in foreign trade, Xinjiang saw a significant uptick, with the number surpassing 3,000 to reach 3,065—an increase of 21.2% compared to the previous year. Private enterprises, known for their adaptability and market responsiveness, recorded a year-on-year growth of 28.2% in import and export value, contributing to 92.5% of Xinjiang’s total foreign trade.

Among the regions in Xinjiang, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Kashgar Prefecture, and Urumqi City led in import and export values during the first three quarters of the year.