The United States and Mexico share a strong trade relationship, with billions of dollars worth of goods crossing the border each year. This article will explore the top 10 most traded products between these two North American neighbors, highlighting key statistics and the importance of each product category.
1. Vehicles
Cars, trucks, and other vehicles are the most important products traded between the USA and Mexico. In 2024, Mexico exported vehicles worth $137.23 billion to the United States. At the same time, the USA sent $28.92 billion worth of vehicles to Mexico.
Mexico has become a major car manufacturing hub. In fact, 16 out of every 100 cars sold in the United States come from Mexico. Many well-known car companies like General Motors, Nissan, Volkswagen, and Toyota have factories in Mexico.
The automotive trade between these two countries is expected to grow even more in the coming years. This is good news for both economies and for people looking for jobs in the car industry.
2. Machinery and Equipment
Machinery, including computers and other equipment, is the second most traded product category. In 2024, Mexico sent machinery worth $105.83 billion to the USA. The United States exported $52.28 billion of machinery to Mexico.
This category includes a wide range of products, from industrial machines to household appliances. The high trade volume shows how closely the two countries’ manufacturing sectors are connected.
As technology advances, we can expect to see even more trade in this area. Both countries benefit from sharing their expertise and resources in machinery production.
3. Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Electronics are a big part of our daily lives, and they’re also a major product in USA-Mexico trade. In 2024, Mexico exported $87.56 billion worth of electrical and electronic equipment to the USA. The United States sent $55.68 billion of these products to Mexico.
This category includes items like computers, phones, and televisions. Many electronics companies have factories in Mexico, where they make products for the North American market.
The high trade volume in electronics shows how important technology is to both economies. It also highlights the skilled workforce in Mexico’s electronics industry.
4. Auto Parts and Components
While complete vehicles are the top traded product, auto parts and components are also very important. These items are included in the machinery and electrical equipment categories, but they deserve special mention.
Mexico is a major supplier of auto parts to the USA. In fact, the value of auto parts exported from Mexico to the United States is 1.3 times higher than the value of complete cars exported.
This trade helps keep the automotive industry running smoothly in both countries. It allows car makers to get the parts they need quickly and at competitive prices.
5. Mineral Fuels and Oil
Energy products, especially oil, are a significant part of USA-Mexico trade. In 2024, Mexico exported $16.85 billion worth of mineral fuels and oils to the USA. The United States sent $40.94 billion of these products to Mexico.
Mexico is a major oil producer and sends about 48% of its oil exports directly to the United States. This adds up to over 210 million barrels of oil per year.
This energy trade helps both countries meet their fuel needs and supports many jobs in the energy sector.
6. Agricultural Products
Food and farm products are another important category in USA-Mexico trade. While specific numbers for 2024 are not provided, we know that this is a significant area of exchange.
The USA exports a lot of grains, meat, and related products to Mexico. In fact, more than three-quarters of U.S. agricultural exports to Mexico are in these categories.
On the other hand, Mexico sends a lot of fruits, vegetables, and beverages to the USA. This trade helps both countries have a wider variety of food available year-round.
7. Medical Instruments and Equipment
Medical devices and equipment are becoming an increasingly important part of USA-Mexico trade. Mexico is the leading exporter of medical devices in Latin America and a major supplier to the United States.
In 2019, Mexico exported nearly $11.7 billion worth of medical devices globally, making it the world’s eleventh largest exporter in this category.
This trade helps both countries access important medical equipment and supports jobs in the healthcare industry.
8. Plastics and Plastic Products
Plastics are used in many products we use every day, and they’re a big part of USA-Mexico trade. In 2024, the USA exported $21.74 billion worth of plastics to Mexico. Mexico sent $10.26 billion of plastic products to the United States.
Mexico is actually the top supplier of plastic products to the United States, with total revenue of nearly 21 billion dollars in recent years.
While there’s a global movement to reduce plastic use for environmental reasons, this trade remains important for many industries in both countries.
9. Furniture and Prefabricated Buildings
Furniture and related items like lighting and prefabricated buildings are another significant category in USA-Mexico trade. In 2024, Mexico exported $12.82 billion worth of these products to the USA.
This category includes a wide range of items, from office furniture to home decor. The trade in these products supports manufacturing jobs in Mexico and provides affordable options for consumers in the United States.
10. Beverages and Spirits
Last but not least, drinks are an important part of USA-Mexico trade. In 2024, Mexico exported $13.14 billion worth of beverages and spirits to the USA.
Mexican beer is especially popular in the United States. Brands like Corona, Dos Equis, and Modelo are common sights in American stores and restaurants.
This trade not only satisfies American consumers’ taste for Mexican drinks but also supports jobs in Mexico’s beverage industry.