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What Are the Top U.S. Exports? [2026]
On: March 16, 2026 | By: 
Kari Crane |
9 min. read
As the world’s largest trading nation, with $7.8 trillion in trade in 2025 (goods and services), the United States is a cornerstone of the global economy. Currently, the U.S. has trade relations with more than 200 countries, territories and regional associations around the globe.
In this article, we’ll share the top U.S. exports for 2025 based on the most recent U.S. Census Bureau data and highlight key trends shaping U.S. trade in 2026 and beyond. We’ll also explore how exporters can tap into these top markets and how Shipping Solutions can help.
Top U.S. Exports
The United States remains one of the world’s largest exporters of goods. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's FT-900 report (released February 2026), total U.S. goods exports exceeded $2 trillion in 2025. Rather than being dominated by a single industry, U.S. exports span pharmaceuticals, energy, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, semiconductors, automotive products and more.
The following were the top 5 U.S. export commodities by value in 2025:
1. Pharmaceutical Preparations: $119.8 billion
5.8% of total U.S. goods exports
Pharmaceutical preparations were the largest single export commodity in 2025. This category includes finished medicines and therapeutic products ready for distribution.
The size of this category reflects the United States’ global leadership in biotechnology, branded pharmaceuticals and advanced life sciences manufacturing.
2. Crude Oil: $99.7 billion
4.9% of total goods exports
Crude oil continues to be a major export driver. Since the removal of the U.S. crude oil export ban in 2015, American producers have become key suppliers to global energy markets.
Energy exports remain one of the most strategically important components of U.S. trade.
3. Nonmonetary Gold: $83.9 billion
4.1% of total goods exports
Nonmonetary gold—gold traded for commercial, industrial or investment purposes—ranked third among U.S. exports in 2025.
Because gold exports are influenced by commodity prices and global financial conditions, this category can fluctuate significantly year to year.
4. Civilian Aircraft Engines: $75.8 billion
3.7% of total goods exports
The United States remains a global leader in aerospace manufacturing. Civilian aircraft engines and related components represent one of the country’s highest-value advanced manufacturing exports.
5. Other Petroleum Products: $73.8 billion
3.6% of total goods exports
Beyond crude oil, the United States exports significant volumes of refined petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel and other fuels.
When combined, crude oil and refined petroleum products account for over 8% of total U.S. goods exports, underscoring the continued importance of energy in the U.S. trade portfolio.
Additional Top U.S. Export Commodities
The remaining top 10 export commodities included:
- Other industrial machinery
- Semiconductors
- Automotive parts and accessories
- Electric apparatus
- Computer accessories
Together, the top 10 export commodities account for roughly 44–45% of total U.S. goods exports, demonstrating how concentrated high-value trade flows are in pharmaceuticals, energy, aerospace and advanced technology sectors.
Top Destinations for U.S. Exports
The largest destinations for American exports in 2025 were:
| Rank | Destination | Exports (2025, $B) | Share of Total U.S. Goods Exports |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 338.0 | 15.5% |
| 2 | Canada | 336.5 | 15.4% |
| 3 | China | 106.3 | 4.9% |
| 4 | United Kingdom | 97.0 | 4.4% |
| 5 | Netherlands | 95.6 | 4.4% |
| 6 | Germany | 83.1 | 3.8% |
| 7 | Japan | 82.1 | 3.8% |
| 8 | Switzerland | 71.7 | 3.3% |
| 9 | South Korea | 68.8 | 3.1% |
| 10 | Taiwan | 54.7 | 2.5% |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau FT-900 (December 2025), Supplemental Exhibit 4 (2025 annual exports of goods by country/area; Census basis).
Stop Winging It: Develop a Winning Export Strategy
Typically, exporters already know what they’re going to export—they simply need some help or guidance to get it done. Fulfilling random international orders without a cohesive plan will lead to unforeseen issues—jeopardizing your profits and potentially violating regulations.
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As we move into 2026, shifting global demand, trade policy changes and economic conditions will continue to shape U.S. exports. Staying informed and strategic will be key to your success in the coming year. Download the free guide now.
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