Top Export Destinations of the USA (2023/2024 Data)
Learning how to export goods from USA is essential for businesses that want to expand into international markets. Exporting offers access to fast-growing economies such as China, India, and Japan, but it also requires compliance with U.S. export regulations, preparation of correct export documents, and knowledge of each country’s import rules. From choosing the best shipping method to calculating duties and securing payments, understanding the export process helps companies avoid costly delays and trade with confidence.
To put this into perspective, here are the top export destinations of the USA in 2023/2024, showing where American businesses are generating the most export revenue:
| Rank |
Country |
Share of Total Exports |
Export Value (USD Billion) |
Notes |
| 1 |
Canada |
~17.4% |
~ 352 B |
The largest market due to geographic proximity and the USMCA agreement. |
| 2 |
Mexico |
~16.0% |
~ 323 B |
Strong in manufactured goods, automotive, and machinery exports. |
| 3 |
China |
~7.3% |
~ 147 B |
Key exports: electronics, agricultural products, and high-tech goods. |
| 4 |
Netherlands |
~4.1% |
~ 82 B |
Acts as a European trade hub; re-exports are significant. |
| 5 |
Germany |
~3.8% |
~ 76 B |
Major in machinery, chemicals, and automotive products. |
| 6 |
Japan |
~3.77% |
~ 76 B |
Notable for transportation equipment, defense, and electronics. |
| 7 |
United Kingdom |
~3.66% |
~ 74 B |
Pharmaceuticals, machinery, and finance-related goods dominate. |
How to Export from USA to China
Exporting from USA to China is one of the most profitable trade opportunities for American businesses. To succeed, exporters must understand both U.S. export regulations and China’s import requirements. From securing the right export documents to choosing between air freight and ocean freight, every step matters. This section explains how to export from USA to China, covering regulations, documentation, shipping methods, and duties to ensure a smooth export process.
How to Export from USA to China: Regulations
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, China is the third-largest export destination for the United States, with over $147 billion worth of goods exported in 2022. If you want to export from USA to China, the first step is to follow U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Many goods can be exported freely, but sensitive products such as high-tech or defense items may require an export license. Understanding these export rules is critical before starting the process. To show it with numbers, let's look at the top U.S. Exports to China in 2022:
| Product Category |
Export Value (USD) |
| Agricultural Goods |
$20.8 billion |
| Semiconductors |
$13.7 billion |
| Aircraft & Parts |
$12.1 billion |
| Chemicals |
$9.5 billion |
| Medical Equipment |
$6.3 billion |
Export Requirements in China
To export to China from USA, businesses must check China’s import laws. China requires extra approvals for food, cosmetics, and electronics. Exporters should confirm whether their product needs pre-approval to ensure a smooth export process.
Documents Needed to Export from USA to China
The key export documents include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading or Air Waybill, and Certificate of Origin. Missing or incorrect export documents can delay shipments when exporting to China.
Best Shipping Methods to Export to China
When deciding how to export from USA to China, you must choose between ocean freight and air freight. Ocean freight is cheaper for large exports, while air freight is faster for urgent exports. Many exporters prefer working with a professional freight forwarder to simplify the export process.
Export Payments and Duties in China
Every export from USA to China is subject to tariffs and VAT. Exporters should discuss duty costs with their Chinese partners. Safe export payment methods such as Letters of Credit (LC) help reduce risk when exporting to China.
China’s average import tariff rate is 7.5%, but agricultural and luxury goods may face higher rates. Let’s give a closer look at Chinese import tariffs on U.S. goods.
Agricultural products (soybeans, meat, dairy): 10%–30%
Automobiles: 15%
Alcohol & beverages: 14%–65%
Electronics & semiconductors: 0%–10%
How to Export from USA to India?
India is one of the fastest-growing markets for U.S. exporters, offering significant opportunities for businesses of all sizes. In 2022, the U.S. exported $77.5 billion worth of goods to India, highlighting the country’s importance as a key trade partner. Successfully exporting from USA to India requires understanding both U.S. export regulations and India’s import requirements, including certifications for electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food products. From preparing accurate export documents to selecting the best shipping methods and payment options, a well-planned export process ensures smooth transactions and long-term trade success.
To put this into perspective, here are the top U.S. exports to India in 2022 by product category:
| Product Category |
Export Value (USD) |
| Mineral Fuels |
$16.4 billion |
| Precious Metals |
$11.2 billion |
| Aircraft & Parts |
$4.9 billion |
| Chemicals |
$3.7 billion |
| Medical Equipment |
$2.1 billion |
How to Export from USA to India: Regulations
Businesses planning to export from USA to India must first comply with U.S. export laws. Some goods need licenses, especially technology products. Ignoring U.S. export rules can block shipments.
Export Requirements in India
To successfully export to India from USA, companies must understand India’s DGFT regulations. Electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food exports may also require BIS certification. Checking these import/export rules avoids delays at customs.
Export Documentation for India
The standard documents for exporting from USA to India include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, and Bill of Lading or Air Waybill. The Indian importer also needs an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) to receive goods.
Best Shipping Routes to Export to India
Average transit times are: Ocean freight –28–35 days, Air freight 4–7 days. When learning how to export from USA to India, exporters should know the main trade hubs: Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata ports. For smaller, high-value exports, air freight is faster and more reliable.
Taxes and Payments for Exporting to India
All exports from USA to India are subject to Indian GST and customs duties. Exporters should calculate taxes in advance. Payment for exports is often done through Letters of Credit or Bank Guarantees, which protect both parties.
Let’s give a closer look at Indian import tariffs on U.S. goods.
Alcoholic beverages: 150%
Automobiles: 60%–100%
Electronics & machinery: 10%–20%
Medical devices & pharmaceuticals: 5%–12%
How to Export from USA to Japan?
Japan is a major trading partner for the United States, ranking as the fourth-largest export destination. In 2022, U.S. exports to Japan were valued at $80 billion, reflecting strong demand for products such as transportation equipment, electronics, and defense-related goods. Successfully exporting from USA to Japan requires compliance with U.S. export regulations, understanding Japan’s strict import rules, and preparing accurate export documents. From choosing the right shipping method to ensuring secure payments, a well-planned export strategy is essential for smooth and profitable trade with Japan.
To put the U.S.-Japan trade relationship into perspective, here are the top U.S. exports to Japan in 2022 by product category:
| Product Category |
Export Value (USD) |
| Aircraft & Parts |
$13.2 billion |
| Agricultural Goods |
$12.7 billion |
| Mineral Fuels |
$10.1 billion |
| Pharmaceuticals |
$6.8 billion |
| Chemicals |
$5.4 billion |
How to Export from USA to Japan: Compliance
To export from USA to Japan, companies must comply with U.S. export laws such as EAR or ITAR. These regulations affect exports of sensitive goods like electronics or defense items.
Japanese Requirements for Export from USA
When exporting to Japan, businesses must follow Japan’s strict rules. Food, pharmaceutical, and electronics exports require proper labeling and safety compliance. Understanding Japan’s import/export requirements is key to success.
Export Documentation for Japan
The documents needed to export from USA to Japan are: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading or Air Waybill, and Certificate of Origin. Accurate documents speed up the export clearance process.
Best Shipping Options to Export to Japan
Ocean freight takes 18–25 days, while air freight delivers in 3–5 days. Exporters often ask how to export to Japan efficiently. Japan has major ports like Yokohama, Kobe, and Osaka that handle exports from USA. For urgent exports, air freight is the best choice.
Duties and Payments for Exporting to Japan
Every export from USA to Japan is subject to tariffs depending on the product type. Japan’s average tariff rate is 2.5%, but food and agricultural products face higher duties. Exporters should confirm duties before shipment. Secure export payments, such as Letters of Credit, are common in Japan trade.
Let’s give a closer look at Japanese import tariffs on U.S. goods.
Beef & meat products: 20%–38.5%
Dairy products: 20%–30%
Automobiles: 0% (duty-free under agreements)
Electronics & semiconductors: 0%–3%
Thanks to trade agreements such as the U.S.–Japan Trade Agreement (USJTA), tariffs on many industrial goods have been reduced to zero. Exporters still need to check product-specific tariffs before shipment.
