Key Points
- The United States remained China’s largest vape export market, accounting for 31.06% of total exports.
- Exports to the U.S. declined 13.82% year on year.
- Japan recorded the fastest growth among major destinations, up 71.38%.
- Exports to Russia, Indonesia and the UAE increased 58.92%, 39.56% and 24.24%, respectively.
- The top 10 destinations accounted for 74.69% of total exports.
2Firsts
June 29, 2026
According to China Customs export data analyzed by 2Firsts, the United States remained China’s largest destination for vape-related exports during the first five months of 2026, despite a decline in export value from a year earlier. At the same time, exports to Japan, Russia and several emerging markets continued to grow, reflecting an increasingly diversified export market.
The United States remained China’s largest export destination for vape-related products during January-May 2026, with exports totaling approximately US$1.248 billion and accounting for 31.06% of total exports. However, shipments to the U.S. declined 13.82% from the same period last year, making it one of the few major destinations to record a year-on-year decrease.
Japan recorded the fastest growth among China’s major export markets. Exports to Japan reached US$174 million during the first five months of the year, up 71.38% year on year. Exports to Russia increased 58.92% to US$190 million, while Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates posted growth of 39.56% and 24.24%, respectively.
Market | 2026 export value (USD million) | YoY change |
Japan | 174 | 71.38% |
Russia | 190 | 58.92% |
Indonesia | 102 | 39.56% |
UAE | 177 | 24.24% |
United States | 1,248 | -13.82% |
Overall, China’s vape-related exports remained concentrated among a relatively small number of overseas markets. The top 10 destinations accounted for 74.69% of total exports, with the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany remaining the three largest markets. At the same time, stronger growth across several Asian and emerging markets suggests China’s export footprint continues to broaden.
Current customs data show that while the United States remains China’s largest vape export market, export performance is becoming increasingly differentiated across destinations. Continued expansion in several emerging markets will be an important trend to monitor in future export data releases.
Follow 2Firsts for ongoing tracking of China Customs vape export data, global market developments and product structure trends.
Cover Image Source: China Customs export data. Analysis by 2Firsts.
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