Car series
According to customs data, China exported 163,000 light trucks in the first four months of 2025, up 46% year over year and accounting for nearly 60% of the country’s total truck exports. If the current 30% growth trend continues, total exports could surpass 500,000 units in 2025 — a historic high for China's light truck industry, further cementing China's role as a major player in the global commercial vehicle market.
The rise in exports comes as demand for light trucks increases across developing economies, particularly in Belt and Road Initiative countries such as Mexico, Vietnam, Chile, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa. Electric and hybrid trucks are also gaining traction in regions including Southeast Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Chinese manufacturers are benefiting from growing competitiveness, offering a combination of affordable pricing, product customization, and improved quality. Many firms are also shifting from traditional export models to localized manufacturing and joint ventures, helping to strengthen after-sales service and reduce operating costs in destination markets.
Leading Players Drive Global Growth
Foton Motor remains the top Chinese exporter of commercial vehicles, with over 60,000 units sold overseas from January to May 2025. The company launched a new manufacturing facility in Brazil in April with a planned annual capacity of 5,000 units. Foton has also partnered with international firms such as Iveco and Marcopolo and currently operates 22 knock-down (KD) plants and more than 2,000 sales and service outlets in over 130 countries.
JAC Motors exported 36,000 light trucks in 2024. In the first four months of 2025, it exported 12,000 units, representing a 5% year-on-year increase. Sales in key markets such as Colombia, Saudi Arabia, and Ecuador more than doubled. Its electric trucks have also been adopted by global companies like JBS and DHL.
Dongfeng Motor exported over 25,000 vehicles in 2024, marking a 66% increase. Its Morocco-based KD plant operates alongside production lines for Mercedes-Benz and ISUZU. The company has established 14 dealerships in the country, and its Captain W model is tailored to meet local logistics needs.
Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) expanded its reach in Southeast Asia and Africa. In May 2025, it delivered 20 Kaiyun+ light trucks to J&T Express in the Philippines. JMC also entered markets such as Kenya, Senegal, Paraguay, and Vietnam, where it has assembled more than 10,000 units locally.
FAW Jiefang has set a goal of reaching 180,000 overseas sales by 2030, or roughly one-third of its total output. Its Tiger VH 4x4 light truck, designed for off-road and rainy conditions, has secured a 500-unit order in Vietnam and delivered 131 units to the Philippines. The company is also working with J&T to co-develop parcel delivery models.
Other manufacturers are also pushing into international markets. In February 2025, Weichai New Energy shipped 124 Landking trucks to Chile. In February 2025, Chery launched its first batch of Zero-Mi light trucks to the Americas, with additional launches planned in Japan, Vietnam, and Canada later this year.
Despite economic uncertainties worldwide, Chinese light truck makers are expanding their presence overseas. With continued investments in product development and new energy technologies, they are poised to play a larger role in shaping the future of global transportation.
