Global Trade Growth Exceeds Expectations in Q1 2026, Driven by AI Components and Asian Economies

Published: Jul 31, 2026 18:44

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[SMM Aluminum Express] The World Trade Organization released the latest data showing that global merchandise trade growth in Q1 2026 exceeded expectations. Trade in AI-related electronic components surged, offsetting the negative impact of the Middle East war in the final month of the quarter. On a seasonally adjusted basis, global merchandise trade volume in Q1 this year was up 1.9% QoQ and up 3.2% YoY. Asia's exports and imports in Q1 rose 12.9% and 14.6% YoY, respectively, driven mainly by economies such as China, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand. North America's exports rose 7% YoY, while imports fell 10.7% YoY. The WTO expects trade data for the next quarter to more fully reflect the trade disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

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