China’s pickup exports roar past 50% to five‑year high as GWM dominates global push
China’s pickup truck segment posted robust production and sales in January 2026, underpinned by rising exports and continued leadership from established makers such as Great Wall Motor, according to data released by the China Passenger Car Association’s joint market information committee. Domestic pickup shipments in January reached 49,000 units, up year‑on‑year and near a five‑year seasonal high. Production also expanded, signalling ongoing momentum in manufacturer output.
Pickup exports continued to account for a significant share of overall output in January. Across China, exporters shipped approximately 27,000 pickup trucks overseas, up sharply from the prior year and representing over half of total pickup production for the month. This export contribution remains at historically high rates, reflecting the growing global footprint of Chinese pickup brands.
Great Wall Motor’s pickup division continued to rank as China’s largest within the segment, holding near 50% domestic market share and maintaining its position as the foremost Chinese pickup exporter. Other domestic manufacturers, including JMC, Changan, JAC, and emerging players such as Geely’s Radar pickup line, also contributed to production and export volumes, indicating a competitive, diversified domestic landscape.
While the pickup market’s overall growth remains tied to traditional sectors such as construction and small-business logistics, analysts note that the segment’s export performance has become an increasingly critical driver. By reaching roughly 54% of total pickup shipments overseas in January, China’s pickup manufacturing base continues to deepen its reliance on international demand amid variable domestic consumption patterns.
In parallel, new‑energy pickup vehicles, including fully electric and range‑extended models, accounted for a smaller but expanding share of the total segment. January’s data showed approximately 6,000 new energy pickups sold, supported by models from BYD, Geely Radar, and others, with a year‑over‑year increase that outpaced the broader pickup market’s growth rate. Continued product launches and infrastructure development could expand this niche within the larger segment over time.
Overall, the January data reflect a market that remains structurally strong in production and exports, though domestic retail demand trends vary by region and model type. Established incumbent brands retain leadership, while export‑oriented strategies increasingly shape Chinese pickup manufacturing in early 2026.
