Driven by the combined forces of global power grid modernization, AI data center expansion, and the accelerating energy transition, China's power equipment exports have continued to achieve robust growth.
According to data released by the General Administration of Customs of China, power equipment exports reached RMB 24.805 billion in the first quarter of 2026, representing a year-on-year increase of 35.99%. In March alone, exports totaled RMB 8.699 billion, up 11.35% month-on-month.
High-end power equipment recorded particularly impressive performance:
- Transformer exports reached RMB 4.542 billion, a 46.73% year-on-year increase.
- Exports of high-voltage switchgear, smart electricity meters, and energy storage power conversion systems (PCS) to Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia all grew by more than 50%.
Competitive Advantages Driving Global Expansion
Chinese power equipment manufacturers continue to gain market share worldwide thanks to three key advantages:
- Advanced technology and engineering capabilities
- Strong cost-performance competitiveness
- Shorter production and delivery cycles
High-end products such as Ultra-High Voltage (UHV) transformers, Gas-Insulated Switchgear (GIS), and intelligent switchgear systems have successfully entered premium markets in Europe and North America.
Meanwhile, demand from countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) remains strong. Exports to Africa recorded exceptional growth, increasing by 249.61% year-on-year, highlighting the growing influence of Chinese power equipment across emerging markets.
Overseas Orders Extend Through 2028
Many leading Chinese power equipment manufacturers have already secured overseas orders extending into 2028. Major energy storage and grid modernization projects in countries such as Greece, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia are increasingly adopting core equipment supplied by Chinese companies.
This trend reflects the growing international recognition of China's capabilities in delivering reliable, advanced, and cost-effective power infrastructure solutions.
High-End, Intelligent, and Green Products Lead Future Growth
Industry associations believe that as the global energy transition accelerates and demand for power grid modernization continues to expand, China's power equipment export sector will maintain strong momentum.
Future export growth is expected to be driven primarily by:
- High-end power equipment
- Intelligent and digitalized grid solutions
- Green and low-carbon energy technologies
As Chinese manufacturers continue to expand their global footprint and move up the value chain, the industry is steadily advancing from being a major producer of power equipment to becoming a globally recognized leader in power equipment innovation and manufacturing excellence.
