(Deep data-led guide — with insight for B2B sellers and how Viatrademart helps Indian exporters reach U.S. markets)
The United States remains one of the world’s biggest exporters — a high-value industrial and agricultural powerhouse that ships everything from aircraft engines to soybeans. In 2025–26, the U.S. export mix continues to be a mix of advanced manufactured goods, high-value machinery and chemicals, and large-volume agricultural commodities. This article explains the top 10 U.S. export categories, what is driving demand, key destination markets, and practical tips for B2B sellers (especially Indian exporters) who want to target American buyers — and why listing on a focused B2B portal such as Viatrademart can accelerate that journey.
Quick note on data: trade numbers move fast; below I synthesize official U.S. trade releases and reputable market reports from 2024–2025 to present a current 2025–26 snapshot. Key sources used include the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), U.S. Census trade releases, Reuters, Trading Economics and trade analysis outlets.
The big picture
In 2025 the U.S. continued to export at a historically large scale — with merchandise and services exports running in the hundreds of billions per month and showing recovery in several manufacturing and agricultural segments. US Exports are concentrated in capital-intensive goods (aircraft, machinery), industrial supplies (including petroleum products), and agricultural commodities (soybeans, corn, meat). Recent official releases show exports and imports fluctuating month-to-month in 2025, but with durable demand for advanced manufactured goods.
Top 10 U.S. exports in 2025–26 (by value & strategic importance)
1. Aircraft, engines and aerospace equipment
The U.S. aerospace sector — civil aircraft, engines, parts and maintenance services — remains a top-value export. Aero structures and engines are high-ticket items and consistently rank among the largest single-product export groups. Demand is driven by global airline fleet renewal and defense modernization programs.
2. Refined petroleum & crude oil products (including gasoline, distillates, LNG flows)
Energy shipments — crude oil, gasoline, and petroleum derivatives — surged in value over recent years due to shifting global energy trade patterns. Although the U.S. is a significant energy producer, exports of refined products and LNG are major export lines and contribute heavily to export totals.
3. Semiconductors and electronic components
Semiconductors, integrated circuits, and other electronic parts are high-value, high-demand exports, especially to Asian manufacturing hubs and to major tech buyers globally. The combination of U.S. design leadership and global assembly networks keeps chips high on the export ledger.
4. Motor vehicles and automotive parts
Passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and components represent a stable chunk of U.S. export value. The industry benefits from integrated North American supply chains (NAFTA/USMCA), and U.S. auto exports are significant to Canada, Mexico and increasingly selective global markets. Wikipedia
5. Pharmaceuticals & medical products
Pharmaceutical preparations and medical instruments are growing U.S. exports — a trend amplified by demographic shifts (aging populations) and post-pandemic supply chain adjustments. These products are high-margin and rely on advanced manufacturing and regulatory compliance. Investopedia
6. Agricultural commodities (soybeans, corn, meat products)
U.S. agricultural exports remain crucial. Bulk agricultural shipments surged in 2024 and into 2025 (soybeans, corn, and meat products were particularly strong), both in volume and dollar terms — with top markets including Mexico, Japan, and parts of Latin America. Agriculture is a major “breadbasket” export for the U.S. and frequently ranks among the top export categories by volume. Reuters
7. Industrial machinery & machine tools (including computers & factory equipment)
Capital goods — industrial machines, computing equipment, and heavy machinery — are large-dollar exports that support global manufacturing, infrastructure and energy sectors. These goods reflect American strengths in specialized industrial and manufacturing equipment. Wikipedia
8. Organic chemicals & specialty chemicals
Chemicals used in pharmaceuticals, electronics, and industrial applications form a substantial export class. The U.S. chemical industry is vertically integrated and supplies many global value chains. Wikipedia
9. Medical, optical and precision instruments
High-value precision devices (medical instruments, optical instruments, laboratory equipment) have grown as medical and research spending rose globally. These instruments command premium pricing and consistent demand. Wikipedia
10. Plastics & rubber products (including polymers and finished plastics)
Polymers, plastic sheet, and specialized plastics are exported for use in manufacturing and packaging worldwide. These shipments are significant both in industrial supply chains and finished goods exports.
So — what is “America’s largest export” in 2025–26?
There’s not a single static answer because the “largest” export by value depends on how you group products. On a product-category basis for 2024–25, aerospace and aircraft-related exports, energy products (refined petroleum / LNG), and automotive vehicles are frequently at the top in terms of dollar value. Agriculture (when aggregated) also represents a massive export sector. If you ask about single product groups like “aircraft” or “refined petroleum,” those often sit near the very top of the value table in recent years. For monthly and quarterly snapshots, energy and aircraft exports together usually contend for the top spot. Official monthly summaries from BEA and Census show these categories consistently among the highest-value items. Bureau of Economic Analysis+1
Top destination markets (why they matter)
- Canada & Mexico (North American integration): Close geographic ties and integrated supply chains keep them the largest trade partners for many U.S. manufactured goods.
- China & Asia: Demand for agricultural commodities, semiconductors and aircraft parts keeps Asia near the top.
- European markets & UK: Significant buyers of high-value machinery, pharmaceutical, and aerospace products.
Understanding the buyer mix helps exporters position product specs, regulatory compliance and logistical options.
Data snapshot: numbers you can use (select figures from 2024–25 → 2025)
- U.S. exports ran into the hundreds of billions per quarter in 2025; BEA reporting and trade releases show monthly goods & services export totals commonly above $250–280 billion in 2025 months. Bureau of Economic Analysis+1
- Agricultural bulk exports surged substantially in 2024 (notably soy and corn), with some categories setting decade-high volumes. Reuters reported a 22% surge in U.S. bulk agricultural exports in 2024. Reuters
- Media and trade analysts reported record paces for overall U.S. exports in 2025, with commentary noting aircraft, refined products and agricultural shipments as key drivers. Forbes
(If you need exact HS-code-breakdowns and dollar sums for each category for a formal bid or proposal, I can pull the latest Census/BEA tables and produce a one-page export fact sheet for you.)
What this means for suppliers and B2B sellers (actionable implications)
- High-value, compliance-ready manufacturing wins. Aerospace and pharma buyers require strict certifications and traceability. If you supply components, aim for certification (AS9100 for aerospace, GMP for pharma).
- Commodity suppliers must be competitive on logistics and quality. Agricultural suppliers need sanitary and phyto certificates and excellent logistics partners.
- Semiconductor/electronics suppliers should demonstrate quality and IP security. Even small steps—quality documentation, test reports—help open doors.
- US buyers like clear terms. Offer EXW/FOB/CIF quotes, lead times and MOQ tiers. Transparent pricing reduces friction.
How Indian exporters can reach U.S. buyers — practical steps (and why Viatrademart helps)
Breaking into American supply chains is doable if you combine product readiness with targeted outreach. Here’s a short playbook:
- Product & compliance readiness — prepare spec sheets, testing/certification documents, and sample policies.
- Localized product listings — create buyer-facing listings with HS codes, packaging, MOQ, lead times and quality certifications.
- Targeted outreach — use buyer lists by industry (aerospace, pharma, foodservice) and pitch tailored RFQs.
- Use a B2B platform that surfaces qualified buyers — this is where Viatrademart becomes valuable: it’s a focused Indian B2B portal designed to connect Indian manufacturers with global buyers, offering verified lead features, RFQ management and category exposure that helps Indian exporters get noticed by U.S. procurement teams. Listing on Viatrademart increases visibility, simplifies quote management, and speeds the sample-to-order lifecycle.
- Logistics & customs planning — partner with reliable freight forwarders familiar with U.S. ports, tariffs and inspection regimes.
Why Viatrademart? For Indian manufacturers and exporters, Viatrademart combines verification, buyer outreach and practical export support on a portal tailored to India’s export strengths. For categories where India is competitive (specialty chemicals, textiles, processed foods, engineering components), Viatrademart helps credible suppliers reach U.S. buyers faster than cold outreach alone. Hindustan times.
Real-world checklist: prepare one export-ready product listing
- Product Title + clear HS code
- 5 high-resolution photos + spec sheet PDF
- Certifications & lab reports (attach)
- Price matrix: sample price / 1–999 / 1,000+ units
- Packaging details, palletization & lead time
- Sample policy and payment terms
- A short factory video (1–2 min)
Upload this to Viatrademart and push it in targeted RFQs — you’ll get buyer attention and actionable requests.
Risks, trends & what to watch in 2025–26
- Energy price swings: shift import/export value depending on oil/LNG pricing.
- Tariff & trade policy changes: sudden tariff moves can alter competitiveness (monitor administration policy).
- Supply chain re-shoring & partner diversification: U.S. buyers diversify suppliers; be ready to offer stable, traceable supply.
- Tech & regulatory compliance: especially for pharmaceuticals, semiconductors and aerospace components — compliance is non-negotiable.
U.S. Market Fact Sheets + 3 Viatrademart Listings for Each Category
1. Specialty Chemicals / Industrial Chemicals
U.S. Market Fact Sheet
- HS Code: 2905 (Alcohols), 2918 (Carboxylic acids), 3808 (Industrial chemicals)
- Top Buyers:
- Dow Chemicals (USA)
- BASF USA
- Huntsman Corporation
- PPG Industries
- 3M Company
- Market Demand (2025–26): U.S. specialty chemical demand expected to grow at 4.1% CAGR, led by electronics, coatings, and agriculture sectors.
- Compliance: Must meet EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and OSHA standards, provide MSDS, and follow REACH/TSCA guidelines.
- Logistics Checklist:
- Export in UN-certified drums or IBC tanks.
- Use HS labels + Hazard Class (if any).
- Ensure shipping under IMDG (for sea freight).
Viatrademart Listings
1️⃣ Product Title: Industrial Grade Ethanol (99.9% Pure) – For Pharma & Chemical Applications
Description: Premium-grade ethanol suitable for industrial and pharma manufacturing. Certified as per ISO and REACH standards.
Price Range: $0.80–$1.10 per liter (FOB India)
MOQ: 5,000 liters
Images: Container drums, lab certificate, MSDS label
2️⃣ Product Title: Calcium Carbonate – Micronized Powder (Industrial & Paint Grade)
Description: High-purity calcium carbonate for paint, plastic, and paper industries. Particle size 5–10 microns.
Price Range: $80–$110 per ton
MOQ: 10 tons
3️⃣ Product Title: Sodium Hypochlorite (12% Solution) – Industrial Disinfectant
Description: Widely used for water treatment and bleaching applications. ISO-certified manufacturer.
Price Range: $200–$300 per ton
MOQ: 5 tons
2. Auto Components / Machinery Parts
U.S. Market Fact Sheet
- HS Code: 8708 (Auto Parts), 8483 (Transmission Shafts & Bearings)
- Top Buyers: Ford Motor Co., General Motors, Tesla, Cummins, Caterpillar.
- Market Demand: The U.S. automotive parts import market was valued at $163 billion (2024), growing with electric vehicle components demand.
- Compliance: ISO/TS 16949, RoHS, CE certifications required.
- Logistics Checklist:
- Export via container (20/40 ft).
- Use anti-rust coatings + wooden packing.
- Include HS label and country of origin.
Viatrademart Listings
1️⃣ Product Title: Forged Steel Auto Components – Shafts, Bushings & Flanges
Description: High-precision forged components for automotive and industrial machinery. Manufactured under ISO/TS 16949.
Price Range: $2.50–$6.00 per piece
MOQ: 5,000 pcs
2️⃣ Product Title: Brake Pads & Liners – High-Performance Automotive Spares
Description: OEM-quality brake pads suitable for U.S. car models. Heat-resistant and long-lasting.
Price Range: $3.00–$8.00 per set
MOQ: 1,000 sets
3️⃣ Product Title: Gear Shafts & Transmission Parts – Custom Machined Components
Description: CNC machined steel shafts used in automotive transmissions and industrial gearboxes.
Price Range: $10–$50 per unit
MOQ: 200 units
3. Processed Food Products (Spices, Snacks, etc.)
U.S. Market Fact Sheet
- HS Code: 0904 (Spices), 2106 (Food Preparations), 2008 (Preserved Foods)
- Top Buyers: Walmart, Sysco Foods, McCormick & Co., HEB, Amazon Fresh.
- Market Demand: U.S. ethnic food market projected to hit $78 billion by 2026; strong demand for Indian spices & ready-to-eat snacks.
- Compliance: FDA registration, FSSAI export license, and proper labeling (nutritional facts, allergens).
- Logistics Checklist:
- Export in sealed food-grade pouches.
- Include FDA label & expiry date.
- Cold chain for perishable goods.
Viatrademart Listings
1️⃣ Product Title: Pure Indian Turmeric Powder – 100% Natural & Curcumin Rich
Description: Premium-quality turmeric (Curcumin 5–7%), hygienically processed, vacuum-packed for freshness.
Price Range: $2.50–$3.50/kg
MOQ: 500 kg
2️⃣ Product Title: Ready-to-Eat Indian Snacks – Mixture, Namkeen, Bhujia
Description: Authentic Indian snacks made with premium ingredients, packed in nitrogen-sealed pouches.
Price Range: $2.00–$4.00/kg
MOQ: 300 kg
3️⃣ Product Title: Organic Masala Blends – Export-Grade Spice Mixes
Description: Custom spice blends for restaurants & B2B importers (garam masala, curry mix, tandoori).
Price Range: $3.00–$6.00/kg
MOQ: 200 kg
4. Medical & Pharma Supplies
U.S. Market Fact Sheet
- HS Code: 3004 (Medicaments), 9018 (Medical Instruments)
- Top Buyers: Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, Medtronic, Cardinal Health.
- Market Demand: U.S. medical imports exceed $150 billion annually; steady demand for disposables, gloves, syringes, and instruments.
- Compliance: U.S. FDA 510(k), CE certification, ISO 13485 required.
- Logistics Checklist:
- Export via air for medical products.
- Include temperature control if needed.
- Sterile packaging with lot numbers.
Viatrademart Listings
1️⃣ Product Title: Disposable Surgical Gloves – Latex & Nitrile
Description: Powder-free gloves for hospitals and clinics. FDA & ISO 13485 certified.
Price Range: $6.00–$9.00 per 100 pcs
MOQ: 50,000 pcs
2️⃣ Product Title: Medical Syringes & IV Sets – Sterile & Ready for Use
Description: Single-use sterile syringes and IV sets packed per international standards.
Price Range: $0.05–$0.15 per piece
MOQ: 100,000 pcs
3️⃣ Product Title: Surgical Instruments – Stainless Steel Grade 420
Description: Premium-quality instruments for surgical applications, packed in sterile sets.
Price Range: $10–$25 per set
MOQ: 500 sets
5. Textiles & Garments
U.S. Market Fact Sheet
- HS Code: 6203 (Men’s Garments), 6204 (Women’s), 6302 (Home Textiles)
- Top Buyers: Target, GAP, Macy’s, Walmart, H&M USA.
- Market Demand: U.S. apparel imports valued at $112 billion (2024); steady demand for cotton, polyester, and sustainable fabrics.
- Compliance: CPSIA, OEKO-TEX, ISO 9001, labor compliance certificates.
- Logistics Checklist:
- Carton packaging with barcodes.
- Include fiber content and wash care label.
- LDP/DDP shipping preferred for big retailers.
🛒 Viatrademart Listings
1️⃣ Product Title: Cotton T-Shirts – 100% Combed Cotton, Eco-Friendly Dyes
Description: Export-quality cotton T-shirts available in bulk; soft texture, vibrant colors, pre-shrunk.
Price Range: $2.00–$4.00 per piece
MOQ: 1,000 pcs
2️⃣ Product Title: Home Textiles – Bed Sheets & Towels Collection
Description: Premium cotton home linens for U.S. hotels and retail chains. OEKO-TEX certified.
Price Range: $4.00–$10.00 per unit
MOQ: 500 sets
3️⃣ Product Title: Denim Jeans – Custom Fit & Wash Options
Description: Export-quality jeans with flexible MOQ and size customization for U.S. buyers.
Price Range: $8.00–$15.00 per piece
MOQ: 500 pcs
6. Engineering / Industrial Equipment
U.S. Market Fact Sheet
- HS Code: 8479 (Machinery), 8413 (Pumps), 8421 (Filters)
- Top Buyers: GE, Siemens USA, Honeywell, Emerson Electric, ABB USA.
- Market Demand: U.S. industrial equipment imports valued at $200+ billion/year. Automation & green manufacturing driving demand.
- Compliance: ANSI, ISO 9001, UL standards, CE marking.
- Logistics Checklist:
- Wooden packing for heavy machinery.
- Include assembly instructions & manuals.
Use freight insurance.
🛒 Viatrademart Listings
1️⃣ Product Title: Industrial Water Pumps – Stainless Steel, 3HP–10HP
Description: Heavy-duty pumps for factories and commercial use. Built as per ISO 9001 standards.
Price Range: $250–$500 per unit
MOQ: 50 units
2️⃣ Product Title: Air Compressors – Oil-Free, Industrial Grade
Description: Reliable and energy-efficient compressors suitable for factories and workshops.
Price Range: $400–$900 per unit
MOQ: 30 units
3️⃣ Product Title: Industrial Filters – Dust & Liquid Filtration Systems
Description: High-efficiency filtration units for industrial environments. Custom sizes available.
Price Range: $80–$200 per unit
MOQ: 100 units
Final thoughts: seize the export opportunity with data and the right platform
If you ask “what is America's largest export?” — the practical answer is that several product groups (aircraft/aerospace, refined petroleum products, agricultural commodities, and high-value machinery/electronics) compete for top spots depending on the period and how categories are aggregated. For Indian exporters, the way to win is straightforward: pick the right product categories, secure certifications, present clear listings (HS code, prices, lead times) and use a focused B2B portal like Viatrademart to reach pre-qualified U.S. buyers.
