As the U.S. economy leads the world, its trade relations have massive ripple effects that shape global markets. With President-elect Donald Trump's promises of tariffs on key trading partners, countries like Mexico and China will likely feel more impact than most. Let's look at the nations the U.S. depends on for trade.
Mexico
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Accounting for nearly 16% of America’s trade in 2024, Mexico has become a critical trading partner, especially after trade shifts from China. A significant portion of this trade involves automotive manufacturing, electronics, and agricultural products, with the manufacturing sector playing a crucial role in the U.S. supply chain.
Japan
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Japan's influence on U.S. trade is most evident in the tech and automotive industries, as it shifts supply chains away from China to remain globally competitive. The United States also spends between $1.9 billion and $2.5 billion annually on the region's bases, housing, and military projects.
South Korea
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With its huge semiconductor industry, South Korea holds a crucial position in U.S. trade, particularly in the electronics and tech sectors. Companies like Samsung and LG have dominated the consumer electronics market by supplying electronics from home appliances to mobile devices.
India
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Textiles and pharmaceuticals make India a cornerstone of U.S. trade. As U.S. companies continue to outsource tech and IT services, India’s expanding industry continues to deliver goods ranging from clothing to chemicals. They also supply 95.8% of imported cucumbers and 60% of capsicum.
United Kingdom
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The United Kingdom and the United States have a deep-rooted economic relationship that spans various sectors, including machinery, aerospace, and medical technology. In 2023 alone, the U.K. shipped over £60 billion in goods to the U.S., and nearly half of that—about £27 billion—was just machinery and transport equipment.
Italy
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Italy ships a mix of high-end gear and stylish goods to the U.S.—everything from sophisticated machinery and cars to vaccines and medications. Moreover, Americans can’t get enough Italian wine, pasta, cheese, and fashion. Leather goods and designer accessories are also highly sought after.
Germany
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American industries leverage Germany’s technological prowess, with vehicles, machinery, and industrial tools regularly crossing the Atlantic. The country is responsible for roughly 5% of U.S. trade. Germany’s luxury vehicles continue to command strong interest among American consumers.
Netherlands
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The Netherlands serves as a critical gateway for U.S. exports to Europe, particularly through the port of Rotterdam. Beyond logistics, it is a major supplier of industrial equipment and chemicals to the U.S. It also sends vaccines, refined oil, high-tech machinery, and even flowers.
France
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France remains a major contributor to several U.S. industries, particularly in aviation and food exports. French tech companies are gaining a growing presence in Silicon Valley, and aerospace companies like Airbus supply essential parts to American aviation. France’s food exports, such as artisanal cheeses and regional wines, shape U.S. dining trends.
Brazil
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Brazil keeps the U.S. stocked with soybeans, oil, and iron ore, but it’s not just raw stuff—planes, machines, and coffee also make the list. From fueling factories to filling mugs, Brazil’s exports pack a punch in both industry and everyday life, making it a well-rounded trade partner.
Australia
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Australia’s trade relationship with the U.S. is primarily based on natural resources, mainly coal and iron ore. These resources support American manufacturing. Additionally, Australia’s role as a key supplier of beef, wine, and wool ensures the U.S. has access to essential raw materials and consumer goods.
Vietnam
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Vietnam has emerged as a major supplier for U.S. manufacturers and retailers. It exports textiles, electronics, and footwear, which have become integral to the American retail and manufacturing sectors. As companies seek alternatives to China, Vietnam has become an increasingly important trading partner in the Asia-Pacific region.
Taiwan
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Taiwan is crucial to U.S. tech industries, as its semiconductor exports meet critical needs in sectors such as electronics, defense, and computing. U.S. companies depend heavily on Taiwanese semiconductor manufacturers, making the island nation a linchpin in global supply chains, particularly in high-tech sectors.
Canada
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Beyond being America's neighbor, Canada contributes 14% to U.S. goods imports. It remains the largest supplier of crude oil, meeting over half of the U.S.'s imported oil needs. Canada also provides essential agricultural exports like wheat, and its manufacturing sector, including cars and machinery, fuels the American economy.
China
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Trade hasn't stopped even with tariffs as high as 245% on Chinese goods and China firing back with 125% on U.S. stuff. China still supplies many electronics, machines, and essentials, making up 11% of all U.S. trade in 2024. The tension's real, but the ties run deep.
Saudi Arabia
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Saudi Arabia plays a pivotal role in meeting the United States' energy needs with their crude oil imports. Even as the U.S. increases its oil production, it remains a key energy partner. Beyond oil, the Kingdom exports chemicals and other products essential for various American industries.