Where Data Tells the Story
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In the 1960s and 1970s, Europe accounted for 50% of global trade, followed by the Americas at 23% and Asia at 17%. Asia's share of global trade steadily increased, surpassing Europe in 2010. Between 2000 and 2023, Asia's trade volume grew by 385%, compared to 221% for Europe and 213% for the rest of the world. Asia's share of global trade rose from 30% to 39% during this period, contributing 43% of global trade growth.
China played a pivotal role in Asia's trade expansion, representing 29% of Asia's trade in 2023. Significant milestones include Japan surpassing the United Kingdom in trade volume in 1972, China surpassing the United Kingdom in 2003, Germany in 2009, and the United States in 2013.
While the export markets of developed economies have become saturated, Asian export growth slowed in the 2010s. Emerging economies, particularly India, face challenges in further developing their exports. However, global trade growth is expected to continue, with Asia remaining a key driver in the future.