US Export Data 2024: Insights into Products, Countries, and Trade Patterns

US Import Data

August 5, 2025

Table of Content

In the ever-evolving landscape of international trade, the United States continues to play a dominant role as a global economic powerhouse. A careful examination of US export data for 2024 reveals encouraging signs of growth and resilience despite global headwinds. With $1.29 trillion worth of goods exported in just the first half of 2024, the United States remains the second-largest exporter in the world, trailing only China.

Exports are not just an economic statistic—they represent industrial strength, job creation, and the global competitiveness of American businesses. In this article, we will analyze the top 10 US exports, understand the country’s main export destinations, and provide insight into the US main exports that define its economic footprint across the world.

US Export Overview: 2024 Snapshot

Total Exports (H1 2024): $1.29 trillion
Top Export Destination: Canada ($85.69 billion)
Trade Balance: $360 billion
Export-to-GDP Ratio: 10%
Fastest-Growing Category: Vehicles and capital goods

The US export data paints a robust picture of sustained growth in critical sectors, including energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles. These sectors not only represent the main US exports but also showcase America’s innovation, production capabilities, and global demand for high-quality goods.

Top 10 US Exports in 2024

Let’s explore the top 10 US exports by value in the first half of 2024, along with the companies and HS codes associated with each category:

1. Mineral Fuels and Mineral Oils – $81.28 Billion

With HS Code 27, this category leads US exports in 2024. Oil and gas exports are a cornerstone of US trade, driven by industry giants like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips. This category comprises 16.02% of total exports, reaffirming America’s position in the global energy market.

2. Nuclear Reactors and Mechanical Appliances – $60.09 Billion

Represented by HS Code 84, the US continues to lead in machinery and mechanical engineering. From General Electric to Caterpillar, these exports fuel global infrastructure development. This category makes up 11.84% of total US exports.

3. Electrical Machinery and Equipment – $50.08 Billion

HS Code 85 includes high-tech exports such as microchips, communications devices, and advanced electronics. Companies like Intel, Apple, NVIDIA, and Cisco dominate this sector. This category accounts for 9.87% of the export share.

4. Vehicles – $35.48 Billion

HS Code 87 covers cars, trucks, and automotive parts. Ford, GM, and Tesla are leading exporters of passenger and electric vehicles, driving 6.99% of US export value.

5. Aircraft, Spacecraft, and Parts – $30.92 Billion

Aerospace remains one of America’s most prominent export industries (HS Code 88). Companies like Boeing and Lockheed Martin keep the US at the forefront of aviation and defense technologies, contributing 6.1% to total exports.

6. Optical, Measuring, and Medical Instruments – $26.37 Billion

These high-precision tools (HS Code 90) are key in the healthcare and engineering sectors. Their export growth reflects rising global demand for American medical technology and instruments.

7. Pharmaceutical Products – $22.13 Billion

HS Code 30 includes medicines and healthcare formulations. Pfizer, Merck, Johnson & Johnson, and AbbVie are among the biggest players, contributing 4.36% to the export economy.

8. Precious Stones and Metals – $21.14 Billion

Exporting valuable materials like gold and diamonds (HS Code 71), this category includes major players such as Newmont Corporation and Tiffany & Co., making up 4.17% of total exports.

9. Plastics and Plastic Articles – $20.07 Billion

Represented by HS Code 39, this sector includes everything from industrial polymers to consumer packaging. Key players are Dow, ExxonMobil, and LyondellBasell, accounting for 3.96% of exports.

10. Miscellaneous Commodities – $16.09 Billion

HS Code 99 covers goods not otherwise classified. This diverse category forms 3.17% of total US exports and includes everything from rare goods to specialized components.

US Main Export Partners in 2024

Understanding us export data isn’t complete without identifying the country’s top trade partners. According to 2024 figures, Canada and Mexico remain the largest buyers of American goods, followed by China, Germany, and Japan.

Top 10 Export Destinations by Value:

Canada – $85.69 billion
Mexico – $80.16 billion
China – $36.85 billion
Netherlands – $22 billion
Germany – $19.82 billion
Japan – $18.97 billion
United Kingdom – $18.73 billion
South Korea – $16.68 billion
France – $11.71 billion
Brazil – $11.53 billion

Together, these countries account for over 60% of American exports, highlighting the importance of stable trade relationships and international diplomacy in boosting US economic growth.

Leading US Exporters in 2024

The following American corporations are at the forefront of the export landscape:

Apple Inc. – Electronics
Chevron & ExxonMobil – Oil and Gas
Boeing – Aerospace
AbbVie & Pfizer – Pharmaceuticals
Caterpillar – Heavy Equipment
Intel – Semiconductors

These companies contribute significantly to the nation’s export value and represent American innovation and industrial excellence on a global scale.

US Export Market Outlook for 2024

As 2024 progresses, analysts expect continued growth in high-tech, clean energy, and automotive exports. While demand for crude oil saw a minor slump in Q2, capital goods and consumer electronics remain strong performers.

Key Highlights:

Export growth in Q2: $791.4 billion
Vehicles and parts: Up by $1.4 billion
Consumer and capital goods: Up by $600 million
Chemicals and crude oil: Down by $1.7 billion

With a history of resilience and a strong global presence, the US is on track to exceed its 2023 total export value of $2.01 trillion.

Conclusion: Why US Export Data Matters

Tracking US export data helps businesses, investors, and policymakers understand where the economy is headed. It reveals opportunities in emerging sectors, guides international trade strategies, and underscores the importance of maintaining strong relationships with global partners.

In 2024, the top 10 US exports, ranging from fuels and machinery to pharmaceuticals and vehicles—underscore the country’s manufacturing and technological strengths. By analyzing these trends, stakeholders can make smarter decisions and stay ahead in the competitive global trade arena.

Whether you’re a global buyer, exporter, or market analyst, staying updated on US main exports and their destination markets is key to success in international commerce.

Meta Title: Exploring US Main Exports: Trends, Opportunities, and Global Impact in 2024
Meta Description: A careful examination of US export data for 2024 reveals encouraging signs of growth and resilience despite global headwinds.
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