In the intricate world of international trade, tracking export data is a crucial measure of a country’s economic health and global trade engagement. As one of the leading global economic superpowers, the United States continues to play a vital role in shaping global commerce. According to recent US export data, the country exported goods and services worth $1.29 trillion in the first half of 2024, reinforcing its position as the second-largest exporter in the world.
This article dives into the US main exports, highlights the top 10 US exports, identifies leading trade partners, and explores the trends shaping the American export landscape in 2024.
The Strategic Role of US Exports in Economic Growth
Exports are not just numbers—they represent jobs, industry competitiveness, innovation, and global reach. For the United States, exports drive economic expansion, create high-quality employment opportunities, and strengthen the nation’s trade relationships. Key categories such as electronics, vehicles, aircraft, pharmaceuticals, and mineral fuels contribute significantly to this growth.
In early 2024, the US Export Price Index rose by 0.8% in February, signaling a positive trend from the previous month’s 0.9% increase. With expanding demand across continents and consistent output in high-value sectors, US export data underscores the country’s influence in global trade.
US Export Data 2024: By the Numbers
- Total Exports (H1 2024): $1.29 trillion
- Trade Balance: $360 billion surplus
- Export Share of GDP: 10%
- Top Export Destination: Canada ($85.69 billion)
- Top Export Commodity: Mineral fuels & oils ($81.28 billion)
These statistics demonstrate that the US export engine remains resilient and diversified, capable of adapting to shifting international demand and trade dynamics.
Top 10 US Exports in 2024
Here are the top 10 US exports for 2024 based on total export value and HS code classifications:
1. Mineral Fuels and Mineral Oils (HS Code 27) – $81.28 Billion
Comprising 16.02% of all exports, mineral fuels and oils remain a dominant commodity. Major players like Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and ExxonMobil are at the forefront, exporting crude oil, gas oil, and petroleum products worldwide.
2. Nuclear Reactors & Mechanical Appliances (HS Code 84) – $60.09 Billion
This high-tech sector contributes 11.84% of US exports. Major manufacturers like General Electric, John Deere, and Caterpillar Inc. deliver everything from industrial machinery to heavy equipment.
3. Electrical Machinery & Equipment (HS Code 85) – $50.08 Billion
With 9.87% share, this sector includes semiconductors, telecom systems, and consumer electronics. Companies such as Apple, Intel, Cisco, and Texas Instruments continue to dominate global markets.
4. Vehicles (HS Code 87) – $35.48 Billion
The US automobile sector remains a major contributor, with 6.99% of exports. Brands like Ford, General Motors, and Tesla ship vehicles and components globally.
5. Aircraft, Spacecraft & Parts (HS Code 88) – $30.92 Billion
Aerospace exports contribute 6.1% to the total. Boeing and Lockheed Martin lead the industry with their world-renowned aircraft and defense technology.
6. Optical & Surgical Instruments (HS Code 90) – $26.37 Billion
At 5.2% share, the US dominates in medical and precision instruments, exported by top firms specializing in health tech.
7. Pharmaceutical Products (HS Code 30) – $22.13 Billion
Prescription drug exports are vital to the economy, representing 4.36% of exports. Global pharmaceutical giants like Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, and Merck lead the charge.
8. Precious Metals & Stones (HS Code 71) – $21.14 Billion
The US is a major player in luxury exports like gold, diamonds, and platinum (4.17% share). Brands like Tiffany & Co. and Signet Jewelers drive this segment.
9. Plastics and Articles (HS Code 39) – $20.07 Billion
Plastics represent 3.96% of exports, with key players like Dow Chemical and LyondellBasell fueling demand from industrial markets.
10. Commodities Not Elsewhere Specified (HS Code 99) – $16.09 Billion
These miscellaneous exports, accounting for 3.17%, reflect the US’s diverse manufacturing and production base.
Top Export Markets: US Trade Partners in 2024
The US export market is globally diverse, but certain regions and countries take the lead:
Top 10 Export Destinations (Q1 2024):
- Canada – $85.69B
- Mexico – $80.16B
- China – $36.85B
- Netherlands – $22B
- Germany – $19.82B
- Japan – $18.97B
- UK – $18.73B
- South Korea – $16.68B
- France – $11.71B
- Brazil – $11.53B
North America alone (Canada + Mexico) accounts for 33.5% of all US exports, highlighting the strategic value of regional trade agreements like USMCA. Europe absorbs nearly 24%, while Asia receives close to 30%.
US Main Exporters: Companies Powering Trade
Leading American corporations behind these export numbers include:
- Chevron Corp. – Oil & Gas
- Apple Inc. – Electronics
- Boeing – Aerospace
- Pfizer & AbbVie – Pharmaceuticals
- Cisco Systems – Communications
These industry giants leverage innovation, scale, and logistics to expand US trade reach globally.
US Export Performance Over the Last Decade
| Year | Export Value |
|---|---|
| 2013 | $1.57 trillion |
| 2014 | $1.61 trillion |
| 2015 | $1.50 trillion |
| 2016 | $1.45 trillion |
| 2017 | $1.54 trillion |
| 2018 | $1.66 trillion |
| 2019 | $1.64 trillion |
| 2020 | $1.42 trillion |
| 2021 | $1.75 trillion |
| 2022 | $2.06 trillion |
| 2023 | $2.01 trillion |
| 2024 (H1) | $1.29 trillion |
This consistent export performance reflects not only robust domestic production but also growing international demand for American goods and services.
Final Thoughts: The Future of US Exports
The 2024 US export data highlights strong growth in high-tech, energy, pharmaceutical, and industrial machinery sectors. By maintaining product quality, technological innovation, and trade diplomacy, the US is poised to retain its competitive edge.
As global demand shifts and new trade agreements emerge, companies and policymakers must continue to invest in export infrastructure, develop skilled trade workforces, and adopt digital trade platforms.
For businesses looking to engage with American markets or source reliable trade partners, understanding the top 10 US exports and US main exports is essential. The data shows clear opportunities—especially in North America, Asia, and Europe—where demand remains high and the US continues to deliver.
