China’s gold imports surge to 1,000 tonnes amid robust investment demand

Tue Sep 22 2026

Chinese gold imports have reached unprecedented levels during the current year, bolstered by a decline in global prices and appreciation of the yuan currency. According to a Bloomberg report, imports accumulated through August exceeded 1,000 tons, surpassing the aggregate volume recorded throughout the entirety of 2025, as indicated by the most recent customs statistics, which maintain records extending back to 2017.

Robust investment appetite has maintained domestic prices at a marginal premium relative to international benchmarks, thereby stimulating import activity.

Chinese exchange-traded funds accumulated approximately 44 tons through August, representing an 18% expansion from the beginning of the year, based on data from the Shanghai Gold Exchange. International ETFs demonstrated minimal fluctuation during this timeframe.

The substantial import quantities observed in recent months perpetuate the trajectory established earlier in the year, when gold's decline from its historical peak in January motivated investors to capitalise on reduced valuations. Import volumes were additionally likely enhanced by a revised licensing framework implemented in June that would have prompted financial institutions to utilise existing import allocations, which are distributed by the People's Bank of China.

China maintains its position as the world's foremost gold purchaser, with demand reinforced by macroeconomic uncertainty and comparatively constrained investment alternatives relative to other nations. The central bank's escalation of gold acquisitions in recent months has additionally strengthened confidence among individual investors, noted Wu. The PBOC executed its largest bullion purchase since 2023 in August, sustaining its acquisition activity for nearly two consecutive years.

Source: https://www.cnbctv18.com/