China's car exports hit new highs in September 2026: who is shipping the most, and what buyers should do

China exported 1.053 million vehicles in September 2026, up 61.4% on a year earlier, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) as reported by SteelOrbis. For January to September the total was 8.205 million, up 65.8%.

The China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) counts passenger cars only, and its brand figures were published by CnEVPost on 13 October. BYD exported 174,277 new-energy passenger cars in September, a 31.1% share, though its share fell from 35.4% in August. Chery was second with 85,990 and Geely third with 72,893. Leapmotor exported 27,454, nearly four times its figure of a year earlier. SAIC Passenger Vehicle sent 29,552 and Changan 29,325. For the first nine months BYD exported 1,301,074.

Exports are now carrying the market. CnEVPost reported on 9 October that CPCA expects September new-energy passenger car wholesale of about 1.67 million, the highest of 2026, and said strong exports supported the growth. CPCA linked this to high oil prices overseas, which lasted longer than expected. At home the picture is weaker: CnEVPost's 13 October report notes that domestic new-energy retail sales fell 16.7% in September. CAAM and CPCA use different scopes, so their totals should not be compared directly.

What this means for buyers outside China

1. 1.Big volume does not mean every model is easy to get. The figures above are by maker group, and they do not show how many cars of a particular model are available for export. Ask about availability model by model.
2. 2.Expect pressure on sea freight and allocation. When exports grow this fast, shipping slots and popular versions may take longer to secure. Ask for the delivery time in the formal quote.
3. 3.Check the local dealer first. If your country has an official dealer for the brand, compare its price and warranty against an export quote.
4. 4.Since 1 January 2026, battery-electric passenger cars need an export licence, and the licence-holding exporter must appear on the customs papers. Ask for the company name before paying a deposit.
5. 5.Be careful with very cheap offers. A price far below the usual FOB range can mean a car that cannot be legally exported, or one with no warranty.

To see what is available for your country, send an inquiry with the model and version you want. We will tell you whether it can be registered there and give an FOB reference price; the formal quote decides the final price.