Published：Feb 18, 00:57Last updated：Mar 7, 08:02

China’s Foreign Exchange and Gold Reserves Reach Record Highs Amid Global Uncertainty

Feb. 18, 2026 00:57

On February 18, 2026, Japan's Ministry of Finance announced a January trade deficit of over 11.526 trillion yen. The deficit reflects ongoing economic challenges amid global uncertainties, with imports outpacing exports during the period.

Summarized

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12Media

Mar. 7, 2026 07:04

As of the end of February 2026, China's foreign exchange reserves have increased for seven consecutive months, reaching $34,278 billion, with a 0.85% rise from January. The increase was influenced by macroeconomic data, monetary policies, and the rising dollar index amid fluctuating global financial assets. Gold reserves also grew by 30,000 ounces to 74.22 million ounces, reflecting efforts to diversify international reserves and strengthen the currency's credit. Experts highlight that these reserves support China's economic stability and further openness.

Mar. 7, 2026 08:02

According to the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, China's foreign exchange reserves increased by $28.7 billion to $3.4278 trillion at the end of February 2026, marking the seventh consecutive month of growth. The rise was influenced by factors such as exchange rate movements and asset price changes, with the RMB strengthening against the US dollar and other currencies, supporting stable cross-border capital flows.

China’s foreign exchange and gold reserves have reached new record highs as of February 2026, reflecting the country’s ongoing efforts to diversify its international assets and bolster financial stability. The latest data show sustained growth in both reserves, underlining China’s strategy to strengthen economic resilience and monetary sovereignty in the face of global uncertainties and fluctuating asset prices.People's Daily+2

📈 Foreign Exchange Reserves Hit Historic Levels

By the end of February 2026, China’s foreign exchange reserves climbed to $3.4278 trillion, marking an increase of $28.7 billion or 0.85% from the previous month. This represents the seventh consecutive month of growth, driven by exchange rate effects, asset price changes, and the strengthening of the US dollar index. The State Administration of Foreign Exchange attributed the rise to stable macroeconomic data and effective monetary policies, which have supported robust cross-border capital flows.People's Daily+2

🪙 Gold Reserves Continue Steady Accumulation

China’s gold reserves also saw a notable increase, rising by 30,000 ounces in February to reach a total of 74.22 million ounces. This marks the 16th consecutive month of gold accumulation, highlighting China’s commitment to diversifying its reserve portfolio. The steady buildup of gold is seen as a strategic move to enhance the credit of the Chinese currency and provide a buffer against global financial volatility.People's Daily+2

🌏 Policy Implications and Economic Resilience

Experts emphasize that the sustained growth in both foreign exchange and gold reserves reflects China’s broader strategy to reinforce economic stability and openness. The accumulation of reserves is seen as a safeguard against external shocks, supporting the country’s monetary sovereignty and capacity to manage international risks. These developments are expected to further solidify China’s position in the global financial system amid ongoing uncertainties.China.org+2

📊 Drivers and Global Context

The increases in reserves were influenced by a combination of macroeconomic factors, including the appreciation of the RMB against major currencies, asset price fluctuations, and proactive policy measures. As global financial markets remain volatile, China’s approach to reserve management demonstrates a focus on long-term stability and adaptability, reinforcing its economic resilience on the world stage.People's Daily+2

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