Amid recent U.S. tariff hikes that have disrupted global trade, Chinese exporters face heightened uncertainties. As a leading foreign trade province, Henan—ranking among China's top 10 in annual import-export value for five consecutive years and leading central China for over a decade—has over 10,000 active foreign trade enterprises. Despite challenges, the province reported a 26.4% year-on-year growth in foreign trade for the first two months of 2024.

Diversified Markets: Spreading Risks, Seizing Opportunities
Henan enterprises are turning volatility into opportunity by expanding into emerging markets. At Luoyang Northern EK Chor Motorcycle Co., Ltd., hundreds of crates labeled for Europe, Africa, and Asia awaited shipment despite global market jitters. Known for its "Dayang" motorcycles, the company exported over 200,000 units globally last year.

"The Belt and Road Initiative has opened doors in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia," said Zhang Kai, head of international trade. Customizing products for regional preferences—like new European models—and attending global expos have fueled growth. Though tariffs may slow Q2 exports, the company remains optimistic, with a 20% export rise in Q1.

Other firms, like cookware leader Huabang Implement & Cooker Co, Ltd, face sharper pressures. While U.S. orders stalled, their pivot to the UK, Germany, Sweden and Romania has softened the blow. "We're targeting Southeast Asia and India next," said Li Manke, Huabang's trade manager.

According to Zhengzhou Customs, ASEAN has overtaken the U.S. as Henan's largest trade partner, with steady growth in Belt and Road and RCEP markets.

Competitive Edge: Innovation and Quality Drive Global Trust
"Overseas consumers now associate 'Made in China' with quality and innovation," noted a Yutong Bus executive. The electric vehicle giant, investing 5% of revenue in R&D, recently delivered 287 buses to Norway, showcasing its global clout.

Similarly, Henan Hengyi Lithium Energy, a rising star in consumer batteries, leverages cutting-edge safety technology to attract European partners. "Product strength is our shield against trade risks," said Ding, its trade director.

Cost efficiency further bolsters resilience. In Luoyang's "Steel Furniture Capital," Amazon's top-selling steel products—70% cheaper than U.S. equivalents—thrive on localized supply chains. "Our '30-minute industrial circle' slashes costs, freeing resources for R&D," said Xia Binbin of Henan Gangmei Technology.

Collaborative Resilience: Synergy Across Sectors
Henan's businesses are not alone. Over 575 local firms will showcase at the Canton Fair, supported by provincial training programs to maximize client engagement. Meanwhile, upcoming cross-border e-commerce expos aim to bridge global buyers with Henan's specialty goods.

Customs officials are also stepping up, advising firms on tariff mitigation via origin certifications and real-time policy updates. Logistics innovations—like multimodal transport—cut costs by ¥1,000 per container, easing pressure on exporters like Luoyang Northern EK Chor Motorcycle.

Voices of Confidence
"Challenges persist, but the sky won't fall," affirmed a Customs spokesperson, highlighting China’s diversified markets and robust domestic demand. Experts echoed resolve against U.S. "reciprocal tariffs," criticizing them as economically irrational and disruptive.

From trade veterans to rising innovators, Henan's exporters embody adaptability. As Huabang’s Li Manke put it: "Where there's a will, there's a way." Whether at global expos or on cross-continental client trips, their mantra—turn pressure into momentum—fuels Henan's next chapter in global trade.

(Compiled from Xinhua reports)

Reporters: Sun Jing, Wang Ge

Translator: Dou Tao

Web editors: Shen Jianqi, Li Siyao