China's rapid renewables growth bolsters export resilience amid global energy shock: report

China's export sector is expected to remain resilient amid the global energy supply shock, supported by the country's high degree of energy self-sufficiency and the rapid expansion of new energy sources, according to a research report from Nomura.

China's electricity supply system is largely insulated from the current energy supply shock due to several structural factors, the report noted.

The country has made rapid progress in integrating alternative energy sources, including wind, solar and nuclear power. However, while its new energy sector is developing rapidly, the industrial sector remains heavily reliant on coal, much of which is domestically mined.

A regulated electricity system also ensures that manufacturers have stable access to power, insulating Chinese exporters from the current energy turmoil, the report added.

Given these unique advantages, Nomura noted that while its 2026 annual outlook had projected a moderate slowdown in China's export growth, the firm now sees upside potential, especially if the energy crisis extends into the second half of the year.

China's foreign trade has posted a robust start to the year, with exports surging 19.2 percent and imports jumping 17.1 percent year on year in the January-February period. ■