China exported more goods worldwide in 2025 than ever before, yet many salespeople say it was the most challenging year of their careers. The decline in US ordersβfollowing President Donald Trumpβs steep tariff hikesβforced companies to diversify into emerging markets, including South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. While the country posted a record $1.2 trillion trade surplus, the human cost on the frontlines was significant.
Sales agents reported smaller orders, lower commissions, and more intense workloads. βIβve experienced more stress this year than ever before,β said Aimee Chen, who works in the pet products sector. Many colleagues described longer working hours, constant pressure to meet client demands, and the uncertainty of less-established markets.
Experts say Chinaβs shift toward lower-income markets requires businesses to chase high-volume, low-margin orders. Firms often offer extended payment cycles and bear higher default risks, placing additional pressure on sales staff. βThis strategy increases both emotional strain and economic uncertainty for workers,β said Mingwei Liu, director of the Center for Global Work and Employment at Rutgers University.
In response to US tariffs, companies adjusted their pricing and increased international travel, with some salespeople making three trips per month to secure new clients. Many reported negotiating with unfamiliar customers for months, often resulting in minimal orders and commissions. Social media analysis of top export-related posts showed widespread complaints about stress, aggressive client behavior, and poor work-life balance.
Data shows that while US exports fell by 20% in 2025, shipments to Africa rose 25.8%, Southeast Asia 13.4%, Latin America 7.4%, and the European Union 8.4%. Analysts warn that although Chinaβs diversification strategy improved its global footprint, sustaining profit margins and long-term growth remains a challenge.
Chen Bo, senior research fellow at the National University of Singaporeβs East Asian Institute, noted that local demand must improve to reduce reliance on foreign markets. βOver-dependence on exports may deliver revenue but can erode profits and strain workers,β he said.
The 2025 experience highlights that Chinaβs trade diversification success came at a steep human and operational cost, underscoring the challenges faced by salespeople on the frontlines of global commerce.
