China’s Wine Exports Surge as Hong Kong and Singapore Lead Growth

China’s wine exports posted a sharp increase in 2025, bucking a broader decline in imports as producers looked overseas for growth amid pressure in the domestic market, customs data showed.

Mainland China exported 4.76 million litres of wine in 2025, valued at US$57.65 million, up 82.10% in volume and 75.53% in value from a year earlier, according to figures released by China Customs.

Hong Kong remained the largest export destination, accounting for more than half of total volume and nearly three-quarters of total value. Wine exports to Hong Kong reached 2.47 million litres worth US$42.24 million, representing 51.89% of total export volume and 73.27% of total export value.

Exports to Hong Kong rose 77.55% by volume and 83.14% by value year on year, making it the main driver of China’s overall export growth. Among the top 10 export destinations, only exports to France declined, with export value falling 25.90%. All other major markets recorded growth.

Markets with large ethnic Chinese populations featured prominently among leading destinations. Singapore ranked second and Macau fourth. Exports to Singapore surged 414.41% by volume and 759.32% by value, while exports to Macau rose 65.95% and 72.60%, respectively. Seven of the top 10 destinations were in Asia, reflecting a high regional concentration.

The average export price of Chinese wine stood at US$12.11 per litre, suggesting a focus on mid- to higher-priced products. Singapore recorded the highest average export price at US$42.73 per litre, followed by Macau at US$20.12. Average prices to Hong Kong and Kazakhstan exceeded US$10 per litre, while exports to France and Australia were priced slightly below US$10.

Only exports to North Korea and South Korea recorded average prices below US$5 per litre, at US$2.37 and US$2.26, respectively, highlighting significant price differences across markets.

Commenting on the rapid rise in Chinese wine exports, Zhang Yi, president of the Qingtongxia Wine Association in Ningxia and owner of Chateau Vegani, said the trend was driven by a combination of factors.

He cited increased international promotion by local governments in recent years, particularly for the Helan Mountain East Foothills wine region. “Exports to Hong Kong are growing quickly due to geographic proximity and efficient customs clearance, as well as more frequent promotion that has improved market acceptance,” Zhang said.

He also pointed to increased investment in the region by both domestic and international producers, which he said had helped raise confidence in the quality and potential of Chinese wine. Major Chinese producers such as COFCO Great Wall and Changyu, as well as international groups including Pernod Ricard, LVMH and Treasury Wine Estates, have established operations in Ningxia.

Zhang said long-term export growth would depend on product quality. “As more industry professionals and consumers taste domestic wines and recognise their quality, perceptions will improve and repeat purchases will become more stable,” he said.

Industry participants cautioned, however, that China’s wine exports remain relatively small in absolute terms. With export value still measured in the tens of millions of dollars, high growth rates partly reflect a low base. Achieving sustained and stable growth over the coming years remains a key challenge for the sector.