According to the latest data from energy research organization Ember, China exported a record 9,2 billion USD worth of electric vehicles in May, a 49% increase compared to May 2025. This figure surpassed the 9,1 billion USD record set in April.
In May, the country exported approximately 448,000 electrified vehicles, comprising 279,000 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and 169,000 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). This marks a significant jump compared to 2020, when Beijing's electric vehicle export value was less than 1 billion USD per month.
These figures underscore China's prominent role in the global electric vehicle industry, as its manufacturers optimize scale and continuously expand their international customer base.
 |
Jaecoo J5 EV - a top-selling Chinese electric vehicle in Thailand. Photo: Thairath |
Jaecoo J5 EV - a top-selling Chinese electric vehicle in Thailand. Photo: Thairath
Of the 9,2 billion USD worth of electric vehicles China exported, ASEAN countries accounted for 1,2 billion USD, or 13%. Countries in the region are actively promoting transportation electrification. Thailand leads the region, importing over 36,000 Chinese electric vehicles, while exports to the Philippines also exceeded 33,000 units.
Simultaneously, Cambodia and Laos both recorded their highest monthly electric vehicle import volumes to date, driven by incentive packages, efforts to expand charging infrastructure, and policies encouraging domestic assembly.
Specifically, Cambodia reduced tariffs on battery electric vehicles to 0% from late March, while also cutting taxes on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles from 35% to 7%. Battery electric vehicles currently dominate this market, though plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are gradually gaining market share.
In Laos, the government reduced registration and service fees for electric vehicles, and mandated that transport businesses achieve a minimum 10% electric vehicle fleet by the end of 2026. Notably, in May, Laos temporarily halted gasoline/diesel oto imports until the end of this year to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. The impact of this policy is expected to become more apparent in the coming months.
Ember noted that escalating fuel prices, influenced by conflicts in the Middle East, are accelerating the transition to green transportation in the region.
The recent record month also reflects a broader trend of accelerated electric vehicle adoption across Asia. Euan Graham, a senior electricity data analyst at Ember, commented: "Southeast Asia is rapidly becoming one of the most dynamic destinations for electric vehicles, and China is meeting that demand with outstanding speed and scale".
Although Southeast Asia receives less attention from Western media compared to major markets like Europe or the US, the region is quickly emerging as one of the world's most significant electric vehicle growth markets. Chinese automakers have swiftly entered the market with affordable models, boosted investment in local factories, and established strategic partnerships, forming a strong foundation alongside supportive policies from local governments.
My Anh
