TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - International trade is crucial to covering the necessities required to run a country, from citizens' daily needs to the equipment necessary for infrastructure upkeep. Out of all countries globally, one question arises: which countries are the largest exporters in the world?
List of the Largest Exporters in the World
Based on 2023 data by Visual Capitalist and Voronoi, China is the largest exporter in the world. Followed closely by the United States and Germany, other major exporters include:
1. China - $3.38 Trillion
China stands tall as the largest exporter in the world, exporting a total of $3.59 trillion in goods. China leads international trade, with its products—ranging from telephones and computers to integrated circuits—found in markets worldwide.
China’s other title as "the world's factory" primarily propelled it to the top of the ranking, reflecting its vast capabilities of a robust business ecosystem and relatively low labor costs. The United States—a nation China is in an ongoing trade war with—Hong Kong, and Japan are noted as the major export destinations of China.
2. United States - $2.02 Trillion
Taking second place, the United States ships goods worth $2.02 trillion worldwide. Within global trade, this reputation is tied closely with strengths of exporting high-value commodities, such as oils, mineral fuels, and distillation products (machinery and nuclear reactors).
As the most powerful nation in the world, the US brings more than just economic strength to the table—it also contributes cutting-edge innovation, advanced technological capabilities, and a diverse economy. Its key trading partners include neighboring countries Canada and Mexico, as well as China.
3. Germany - $1.68 Trillion
Fostering key export goods like vehicles, machinery, and chemicals, Germany truly deserved its title as Europe's biggest economy. With total exports amounting $1.68 trillion, the nation’s standing is attributed to a combination of factors, including strategic location and a strong manufacturing sector. Top trading partners of Germany include the United States, France, and the Netherlands.
4. Netherlands - $935 Billion
The Netherlands punches far above its weight, with $935 billion in goods exported. Exports consistently outpace imports, fueled by high-demand goods such as refined petroleum, machines, and semiconductor devices.
Thanks to the strategic port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands acts as a getaway to the continent. Its top export destinations include Germany, Belgium, and France.
5. Japan - $717 Billion
As one of the most technologically advanced countries, Japan has embedded this expertise deeply into its export landscape. According to Export to Japan, global trade accounts for 37% of the nation’s GDP—a figure that reflects its highly skilled workforce and cutting-edge infrastructure.
Reaching a total of $746 billion in goods, key export destinations include the United States, China, and South Korea, with top products such as cars, integrated circuits, and motor vehicles.
The largest exporters in the world are redefining global trade with their economic strength, innovation, and influence. For a more similar discovery, let’s take a look at the largest economies in the world.