The World’s 30 Largest Exporters (2023). In 2023, global exports of goods totaled $23.8 trillion, marking a 5% decline compared to 2022. Despite this decrease, the global export landscape remains dynamic, with protectionist measures becoming more prevalent. The number of trade restrictions has surged, reaching nearly 3,000 worldwide—five times the level recorded in 2015. The list of the world’s largest exporters showcases how countries are adapting to changing global trade flows, influenced by tariffs, energy shifts, and economic slowdowns.

1. China: The Dominant Exporter

China remains the world’s largest exporter, with a global share of 14.2% in 2023. The country exported goods worth $3.38 trillion. Despite ongoing challenges such as tariffs, China’s export volume showed resilience. A notable factor in China’s export success was the 10% drop in the average price of its manufactured goods. This contributed to high export volumes, especially to the U.S., which received $500 billion worth of goods from China last year. However, this relationship could face significant changes if trade policies shift under the Trump administration.

2. United States: The Second-Largest Exporter

The United States secured the second spot, contributing 8.5% to global exports, totaling $2.02 trillion. While the U.S. has been facing a widening trade deficit since 1979, its energy exports have seen a remarkable transformation. In 2023, the U.S. reached a $65 billion net energy surplus, which helped balance out other trade deficits. This surplus, largely due to a significant rise in domestic energy production, has shielded the U.S. from oil price shocks caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has heavily impacted European nations. Nonetheless, the U.S. still faces pressures due to trade tensions, particularly with China.

3. Germany

Germany, with a global share of 7.1%, exported $1.69 trillion worth of goods in 2023, maintaining its position as the third-largest exporter. However, the country faced economic contraction, and its industrial sector struggled due to rising energy prices, particularly oil. Several German firms had to pause production as a result. A major export market for Germany is the U.S., with $160 billion in goods shipped in 2023. But Germany’s exports to the U.S. could face a 15% decline if proposed tariffs from the U.S. government are implemented. The automotive and pharmaceutical industries would be the hardest hit, with expected declines of 32% and 35%, respectively.

4. Other Leading Exporters:

• Netherlands: The Netherlands remains a key export hub, ranking fourth with $935 billion in exports. Its strategic location and role as a major re-exporter help boost its trade figures.
• Japan: Japan is the fifth-largest exporter, sending $717 billion worth of goods globally. Despite facing challenges like an aging population, Japan continues to maintain strong export figures.
• Italy: Italy, with exports valued at $677 billion, ranks sixth and is a major exporter of luxury goods, machinery, and automotive parts.
• France: France holds the seventh position, exporting goods worth $648 billion. The country’s exports cover a broad range of sectors, including aerospace, luxury products, and food.

5. Notable Exporters in the Top 30:

• South Korea: With $632 billion in exports, South Korea ranks eighth, benefiting from strong exports in electronics, automobiles, and petrochemicals.
• Mexico: Mexico’s exports reached $593 billion, mainly driven by manufacturing and automotive sectors.
• Hong Kong: Despite its unique political and economic status, Hong Kong’s exports reached $574 billion, primarily in electronics and machinery.

6. Smaller Exporters Making an Impact:

Countries such as Canada, Belgium, UAE, Singapore, and Taiwan make up the next tier of exporters, each contributing significantly to global trade. Canada, for instance, exported $569 billion, bolstered by its energy exports. Similarly, Singapore’s role as a key trading hub in Asia helped it export $476 billion in goods.

7. Emerging Exporters:

Emerging economies such as Vietnam, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia also make notable appearances in the top 30. Vietnam, with $354 billion in exports, continues to benefit from its growing manufacturing base, particularly in electronics and textiles. Brazil, largely driven by commodities such as soybeans and oil, exported $340 billion.

8. The Impact of Protectionism and Trade Wars:

The rise in protectionist policies, such as tariffs and export controls, has had a significant impact on global trade. Trade restrictions reached nearly 3,000 by 2023, which is five times higher than in 2015. These measures have contributed to the overall decline in global trade volumes, making it a challenging environment for exporters. Notably, the U.S. and China have been central to these trade tensions, with tariffs and trade wars influencing not only bilateral trade but also broader market dynamics.