China's Courier Sector Handles Over 100 Billion Parcels in 2025, Sets New Record

China's courier sector has handled over 100 billion parcels this year, 35 days earlier than in 2024. The milestone marks the fifth consecutive year of over 100 billion parcels handled in China. The sector plays a crucial role in supporting e-commerce growth and driving broader economic growth. To boost consumption, China has unveiled measures such as adding more product categories to its consumer goods trade-in program and reaffirming support for the program throughout 2025.

China's courier sector has handled over 100 billion parcels this year, 35 days earlier than in 2024. This milestone marks the fifth consecutive year of over 100 billion parcels handled in China. The sector plays a crucial role in supporting e-commerce growth and driving broader economic growth.

The rapid expansion of e-commerce logistics providers like J&T Express has significantly contributed to this achievement. J&T Express, a Hong Kong-based company, reported a record second quarter volume of 7.4 billion parcels, up 23.5% from the prior year [1]. The company's total parcel volume for the first half of the year increased by 27%, reaching 14 billion pieces. This growth is driven by the company's international expansion, with operations in 13 countries, and a significant market share of 29% in Southeast Asia [1].

To boost consumption and support the economy, China has unveiled several measures. One such initiative is the expansion of product categories in its consumer goods trade-in program. This program provides hefty discounts on goods ranging from cars to smartphones, aimed at raising domestic demand and offsetting the impact of US tariffs [2]. Apple, for instance, has seen an 8% year-on-year growth in iPhone sales in China during the second quarter of 2025, largely due to these subsidies [2].

Moreover, China has announced a sizable increase in its government debt issuance to support its local governments, low-income citizens, the property market, and state banks' capital. The country plans to issue 2.3 trillion yuan (€297 billion or $325.5 billion) in special bonds in the next three months to boost the economy [3]. This stimulus program is part of a broader effort to revive economic growth and offset the impact of deflationary pressures and weak consumer confidence [3].

These initiatives, coupled with the robust performance of the courier sector, suggest a positive outlook for China's e-commerce and broader economic growth. The sector's ability to handle over 100 billion parcels annually highlights its integral role in facilitating e-commerce transactions and supporting the growth of businesses and consumers alike.

References:
[1] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/j-t-express-reports-24-184104579.html
[2] https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3316980/chinas-trade-programme-boosts-sales-foreign-brands-including-apple
[3] https://www.dw.com/en/china-announces-stimulus-plan-to-revive-economic-growth/a-70475952