China’s Light Truck Exports to Surpass 500,000 Units in 2025: Foton, JAC, FAW Jiefang Lead the Race

China’s light truck exports are on track to exceed 500,000 units in 2025, driven by robust demand in emerging markets and technological advancements. According to customs data, light truck exports surged 46% year on year to 163,000 units in January-April 2025, accounting for 56.4% of total truck exports. At a 30% growth rate, the 500,000-unit milestone is within reach.

Why Are Chinese Light Trucks Booming Overseas?

Market Demand: Key destinations include Mexico, Vietnam, and Southeast Asia, where growing logistics needs in developing economies and Belt and Road countries fuel demand. New energy models are breaking into markets like Europe and Australia.
Technological Edge: Chinese light trucks now integrate high-efficiency turbochargers, boosting power output by 20-30% while reducing fuel consumption by up to 15%. This technology enables better performance in challenging environments—such as high-altitude routes in South America or tropical climates in Southeast Asia—where turbocharged engines maintain durability and fuel efficiency. Compared to European/Japanese rivals, Chinese models offer customizable turbo solutions at 30-40% lower costs, while outperforming regional brands in torque and load capacity.

Leading Players’ Overseas Strategies

Foton: As China’s top commercial vehicle exporter for 14 years, Foton sold over 60,000 units overseas in January-May 2025. Its Brazil plant (5,000 units/year capacity) produces turbocharged light trucks adapted for local terrain, while 22 global KD factories ensure localized turbocharger maintenance support.
JAC: In 2024, JAC exported 36,000 light trucks, with 12,000 units shipped in January-April 2025 (up 5% YoY). Its turbocharged models dominate in Colombia (100%+ growth), with turbo technology enabling seamless operation in the Andes’ high-altitude logistics routes.
Dongfeng: With 25,000 overseas sales in 2024 (up 66%), Dongfeng’s turbocharged Kayuete W series has won Moroccan orders via Mercedes-Benz co-production lines. The model’s turbocharger cooling system tackles North Africa’s extreme heat, securing 2,000 local orders in 2025.
FAW Jiefang: Under its “SPRINT2030” strategy, Jiefang’s Tiger VH 4×4 light truck features a turbocharged all-wheel-drive system, solving traction issues in Southeast Asia’s rainy seasons. It secured 500 orders in Vietnam and 131 in the Philippines in 2025.

New Entrants & Tech Trends

Weichai delivered 124 Lanqing turbocharged trucks to Chile, and Chery’s Zero-Meter light trucks entered the Americas with turbocharged powertrains. With continuous progress in new energy and turbo technologies, Chinese light trucks are gradually making their presence felt in the global commercial vehicle sector.

Image courtesy of Foton’s official website, all rights reserved.