China battery exports soar 24% to record high

China’s exports of batteries and battery energy storage systems (BESS) reached a record high in 2025, rising 24% over the previous year during the first nine months. Data from the energy think tank Ember show that batteries have been China’s most lucrative clean‑energy technology export since mid‑2022, generating roughly $60 billion in export receipts so far this year. This figure now exceeds the country’s year‑to‑date earnings from electric vehicles, grid components, renewable‑energy infrastructure, and cooling equipment.

China’s dominance in battery technology manufacturing and exports has allowed it to capitalize on the global surge in demand for batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs) and power networks. The top markets for Chinese battery exports are Germany, the United States, and Vietnam, with 23 nations purchasing $500 million or more of Chinese‑made batteries in 2025. Germany recorded the largest annual increase, with export receipts up $2.5 billion compared with the same period in 2024.

Regionally, Europe accounts for 42% of all Chinese battery exports, followed by Asia and North America. The Middle East and Latin America are the fastest‑growing regions, showing 107% and 99% increases respectively over the previous year. Saudi Arabia and Chile are the largest buyers in these regions, with exports to Saudi Arabia rising nearly fourfold and to Chile jumping 320%.

China’s extensive distribution and service networks have helped it establish a strong presence in countries such as Spain, the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, Mexico, and the Philippines—nations with ambitious solar‑power and EV‑sales targets that rely heavily on batteries. In total, 114 countries or territories have purchased $10 million or more of Chinese batteries in 2025.

The significance of China’s battery exports extends beyond economic benefits; it highlights the global shift toward clean‑energy technologies. As the world’s largest battery manufacturer, China is well positioned to meet the growing demand for EVs and BESS, driving the transition to a more sustainable energy future. With its established distribution networks and market dominance, China is likely to remain a primary supplier of EV and BESS batteries for years to come.