Gold exports contributed $8.0 billion to February’s trade gains as Asian buyers drive unprecedented US bullion shipments.
US gold exports reached a record $320.9 billion in March, marking the first three-month streak above $300 billion. The surge is driven by strong demand from China, where buyers prefer kilogram-sized bars shipped via Zurich refineries.
Exports added $4.6 billion to January’s trade gains and $8.0 billion in February, pushing 2025’s annual total up nearly $50 billion year-over-year. Central banks globally have accelerated gold purchases, extending a 16-month buying streak.
The outflow reflects a generational shift in demand, with bullion flown from New York and New Jersey vaults to Asian markets via commercial passenger jets.