In lively hotels and eateries across Japan, delivery robots produced by China's Pudu Robotics glide smoothly through busy dining areas. These machines carry trays of hot meals and fresh coffee, weaving between tables and guests while completing deliveries with high precision.

From serving meals and greeting patrons at outdoor cafes to executing exact operations on car and aircraft assembly lines or assisting in operating rooms, Chinese robots are expanding their presence worldwide. Such practical uses illustrate how advanced items like robots are driving fresh growth in China's overseas trade and adding new energy to its economy.

China's foreign trade kept its upward pace, with goods trade rising 15.3 percent from a year earlier to 20.68 trillion yuan ($3.05 trillion) in the first five months, according to data released Tuesday by the General Administration of Customs.

Strong worldwide demand for Chinese high-tech and electronic goods, spurred by the artificial intelligence trend, along with favorable trade deals, helped deliver this result, observers noted. The numbers reflect China's key position in supporting the stability of global supply networks.

Lü Daliang, head of the customs statistics department, said trade value topped 4 trillion yuan for the third straight month through May, keeping a positive trend, as reported by China Central Television. China has deepened practical trade ties with partners this year and remains a steady influence on world commerce, he added.

Economist Tian Yun told the Global Times that amid economic pressures and geopolitical tensions, the solid growth rate demonstrates China's trade base is firm and stable while showing fresh energy and momentum. The figures also confirm the nation's essential place in global supply chains and the rising competitiveness of its products, he said.

High-tech export growth drew wide attention. Media reports highlighted how China is riding the AI wave, with chip sales jumping sharply. The global AI investment cycle is lifting demand and prices for hardware from the world's top manufacturer.

Exports increased 11.8 percent year-on-year in the first five months, while high-tech mechanical and electrical goods rose 18.4 percent and made up more than 60 percent of total exports. Imports climbed 20.5 percent as domestic demand strengthened, customs figures showed.

Analysts credited the AI surge for boosting demand for robotics, data center gear, solar panels and smart manufacturing systems. Chip export values more than doubled in May, and automatic data processing equipment rose 66.1 percent, according to one rating firm. Progress in manufacturing upgrades also lifted shipments of new-energy vehicles and other advanced items.

Trade with the United States rebounded in May, with exports up 35.4 percent and imports rising 20.4 percent in dollar terms. Trade with ASEAN and the EU grew 16.6 percent and 10.3 percent respectively in the five-month period, while commerce with Belt and Road partners increased 13.6 percent. Trade with Africa reached 1.14 trillion yuan, up 18.2 percent, marking the first time the five-month total exceeded 1 trillion yuan after zero-tariff measures took effect.

Experts expect double-digit trade growth for the first half, among the strongest results in recent years. They cautioned that Middle East tensions and higher oil prices could pressure the global economy later, yet China's steady trade performance will help buffer both domestic and worldwide growth.