The United States export and import (trade in goods) with China from 2014 to 2024

The economic relationship between the United States and China is one of the defining forces of the 21st century. China remains a manufacturing powerhouse and the U.S. has imported far more from China than it exports. In 2024, American exports to China totaled $143.55 billion, while imports from China soared to $438.95 billion. This resulted in a trade deficit of $295.4 billion. It has fueled political debates, trade negotiations, and even tariffs.

In 2014, the United States exported $123.66 billion worth of goods to China and imported $468 billion worth of goods. In 2018, the import value rose to $538.5 billion.

Why does this trade gap persist?

China is a major manufacturing hub. It provides American shoppers with everything from electronics to clothing at low prices. The United States exports to China include items like airplanes, soybeans, and technology.

This trade relationship is not just about numbers it’s about jobs, innovation and global influence. The deficit has prompted calls for fairer trade practices and greater market access for American companies. At the same time, millions of U.S. consumers benefit from affordable Chinese goods, while American farmers and manufacturers rely on Chinese demand.

As global supply chains change and economic policies evolve, the U.S.-China trade situation will remain a key issue in international economics, influencing markets and global cooperation and competition.