China's car sales surpass Japan, ranking first globally

Judging from new car sales in 2025, the global sales by Chinese automakers will reach the top spot for the first time. Japanese automakers, which have held the leading position for over 20 years, will fall to second place. China’s auto exports have already ranked first, establishing its status as a major auto power. To counter Chinese companies with higher price competitiveness, countries are expected to set up barriers through tariffs and new standards. As global frictions intensify, protectionism aimed at safeguarding domestic companies may strengthen.

Nikkei Business Daily compiled statistics based on data released by various companies from January to November 2025 and data from S&P Global Mobility. Sales include commercial vehicles. They cover both the domestic market and overseas markets such as exports. Countries are classified according to the proportion of investment; when each invests equally, the country of the manufacturer that sells the vehicles under the brand name is designated as the country of sale.

China’s global auto sales are projected to increase by 17% year-on-year, reaching approximately 27 million units. In 2023, China ranked first in auto exports for the first time. Overall sales are also expected to reach the top position in 2025.

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