Guangzhou's automobile exports surged to over 120,000 vehicles in the first five months of 2026, with export value reaching 13.295 billion yuan, up 65.8% and 56.1% year on year, respectively, according to a release issued by the Guangzhou Municipal Commerce Bureau on June 29.
The figures show that the automotive sector has become a primary engine of Guangzhou's foreign trade expansion, with new energy vehicles serving as a major growth driver.
Exports of electric passenger vehicles alone reached 75,500 units, valued at 9.36 billion yuan during the period, soaring 92.8% and 88.5% year on year, respectively. New energy vehicle maker XPENG exported 5,315 vehicles during the same period, up 33.48% year on year. The company expects its export volume to surge markedly in the second half of 2026 as new models are launched overseas and local production lines begin operation.
In the first five months of 2026, Guangzhou's automotive export landscape is characterized by a clear tiered structure, with leading manufacturers providing strong growth momentum.
GAC Group, the leading player, exported 96,000 vehicles from January to May, a 99% increase year on year and accounting for more than 70% of Guangzhou's total vehicle exports.
After topping Hong Kong's private car sales chart in April, GAC Group has expanded its presence in key markets such as Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Notably, it holds nearly 50% of Thailand's electric taxi market.
Beyond volume growth, Guangzhou's auto industry is shifting from vehicle exports to a broader global ecosystem, with local manufacturers expanding global R&D, production, and sales networks.
As of May 2026, GAC Group has established more than 700 sales and service dealerships across more than 100 countries and regions, along with six overseas factories in Thailand, Malaysia, Nigeria, Austria, Indonesia, and Cambodia.
XPENG has similarly built sales and service networks covering 60 countries and regions, with local production projects in Indonesia, Austria, and Malaysia, and R&D centers in Silicon Valley, San Diego, and Munich, forming a full industrial chain covering global research, manufacturing, and distribution.
Joint venture brands are also making new progress. Nissan's sole vehicle export entity in China, based in Guangzhou, is accelerating R&D and international certification for export models, with a target of shipping 10,000 vehicles in 2026. This milestone will mark a major step for Guangzhou's joint venture passenger car exports and add fresh momentum to the broader industrial landscape.
Reporter | Huang Xinyi
Photo | Guangzhou Municipal Commerce Bureau
