Chinese EVs flood global markets as the West lags behind

Chinese electric vehicle exports rose sharply in November, according to new robotics customs data. Shipments increased 87 percent from a year earlier, highlighting the rapid expansion of China’s EV industry in overseas markets.

Mexico was the largest destination during the month. Exports to the country jumped 2,367 percent year over year, reaching 19,344 vehicles. Customs data did not specify individual models, but demand for compact and low-cost electric cars has grown strongly in the Mexican market.

Indonesia ranked second among export destinations in November. The country imported 17,503 Chinese-made electric vehicles during the month. Thailand followed closely, with imports totaling 13,517 units.

Asia remained the largest regional market overall. Chinese EV exports to Asian countries climbed 71 percent in November to 110,061 vehicles. Through the first eleven months of the year, nearly one million Chinese electric vehicles were shipped to Asia.

Europe continued to absorb a large volume of Chinese EVs. More than 600,000 units were exported to European markets during 2025, representing a 12 percent increase compared with the previous year.

The United Kingdom recorded one of the strongest monthly gains in Europe. Imports of Chinese electric vehicles into the UK rose 113 percent in November to 9,096 units. Since the start of the year, 121,555 Chinese EVs have entered the UK, marking a 24 percent increase year over year.

Belgium remained a key entry point for Chinese vehicles into Europe. The country imported 195,309 Chinese electric vehicles in the first eleven months of the year. That total, however, was 15 percent lower than the same period in 2024.

Latin America, including the Caribbean, also saw rising volumes, though it remained behind Asia and Europe in total imports.

The latest figures from China’s General Administration of Customs underscore the rapid growth of Chinese electric vehicle exports and their expanding presence across multiple global markets.