Tianjin Port. [Photo/IC]

Tianjin's exports reached a record high for the January-July period this year, reflecting the city's growing global trade and manufacturing strength.

According to customs data, Tianjin's exports totaled 262.2 billion yuan ($38.88 billion) in the first seven months, up 8.8 percent year-on-year. Its products reached 222 countries and regions, with exports to the European Union, Japan, and South Korea maintaining steady growth. Exports to Africa and Latin America surged 27 percent and 21.5 percent, respectively.

The city also continued to deepen trade ties with Belt and Road partner countries, with exports reaching 141.77 billion yuan, accounting for 53.3 percent of Tianjin's total exports. Exports to the other nine Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states rose 9.5 percent.

Tianjin's private enterprises remained a major growth driver, with exports rising 15.3 percent to 127.39 billion yuan, contributing 6.9 percentage points to overall export growth.

Advanced manufacturing is also experiencing strong growth. Mechanical and electrical products accounted for 65.1 percent of total exports, while exports of robots soared 489.9 percent to 1.29 billion yuan.

Meanwhile, exports of Tianjin's own-brand products grew 23.6 percent, highlighting the rising competitiveness of local companies through stronger technology, innovation, and branding.