Chinese Copper Foil Exports Soar as Domestic Industry Seizes Global Demand

China's copper foil exports surged in the first half of 2026, according to data from the General Administration of Customs. Cumulative copper foil exports reached 39,700 mt, up 72.83% YoY, while cumulative imports stood at 45,100 mt, up 12.17% YoY.

The significant export growth was driven by a confluence of overseas supply gaps and end-use demand, particularly in Southeast and East Asian countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea, and Vietnam. Domestic copper foil enterprises' operating rates remained high, above 90%, providing ample supply support for the export surge.

The export value reached $639.97 million, surging 117.5% YoY, indicating a continuous rise in unit prices of exported copper foil and the steady increase in product value added.

In contrast, import growth was significantly slower than export growth, with imports standing at 45,130.31 mt, up only 12.27% YoY. The overall copper foil trade deficit showed a narrowing trend, shrinking from approximately $103.14 million at the beginning of the year to $45.9 million in May.