The top 10 product for air freight exports from the USA in 2025 include high-value goods like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace components—critical for global supply chains and investment decisions.
Overview
Air Freight Export in USA 2025
More than 10 air freight exporters are available in the USA. in this page, not only we list top 10 products for air freight export. Additionally, We offer primarily the largest US-based air freight forwarding companies by annual air metric tons shipped for your reference, as well as key global forwarders with substantial US export operations.
Here’s a detailed article to help readers understand the landscape and make informed decisions about engaging with U.S. air freight exports:
Top 10 Air Freight Exports from the USA in 2025
The United States remains a powerhouse in global trade, and air freight plays a vital role in moving high-value, time-sensitive goods across borders. In 2025, U.S. air freight exports reflect the country’s industrial strengths and innovation. For businesses seeking to partner with American suppliers or expand into U.S. markets, understanding these top exports is essential.
Top 10 Air Freight Export Categories
In 2025, the U.S. air freight export market is estimated to be worth around $49.85 billion, driven primarily by high-value categories such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace components. The market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3%, reaching approximately $61.63 billion by 2030.
1. Electronics and Semiconductors
The sector includes microchips, processors, sensors, consumer electronics, and telecom equipment. This industry is vital because the U.S. leads in chip design and innovation, with exports playing a key role in supporting global AI, 5G, and IoT infrastructure. Major markets for these products include China, South Korea, Germany, and Japan. A notable trend is the growing demand for AI-optimized chips and edge computing devices.
Market share: ~22% of total air freight exports.
Growth driver: AI, 5G, and IoT demand from Asia and Europe.
Trend: Increased export of AI-optimized chips and edge computing devices.
2. Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices
This category includes vaccines, biologics, diagnostic kits, surgical tools, and wearable health technologies. U.S. pharmaceutical exports play a crucial role in supporting global health programs and emergency response efforts.
Key markets for these products include the European Union, India, Brazil, and the UAE. The industry is also witnessing strong growth in personalized medicine and mRNA-based treatments.
Biotech innovations and branded pharmaceuticals are major contributors to U.S. exports, each valued at over $67 billion. These products are essential for global healthcare systems and are exported widely to Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
Market share: ~15%.
Growth rate: One of the fastest-growing segments due to global health initiatives.
Trend: Expansion of mRNA-based treatments and wearable diagnostics.
3. Aerospace Components
This sector encompasses jet engines, avionics, fuselage components, and satellite systems. U.S. aerospace exports are essential for advancing commercial aviation and strengthening global defense partnerships. Major markets include France, the UAE, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia. A key trend driving the industry is the growing demand for sustainable aviation technologies and unmanned aerial systems.
The U.S. remains the global leader in civil aviation exports, shipping aircraft, jet engines, and avionics valued at approximately $123 billion annually. Key export destinations include France, Germany, and Brazil, driven by both commercial and defense sector demand.
Market share: ~12%.
Key exports: Jet engines, avionics, satellite systems.
Trend: Rising demand for sustainable aviation and unmanned aerial systems.
4. Automotive Parts
This segment includes EV batteries, transmissions, sensors, and performance upgrades. U.S. suppliers play a pivotal role in driving the global transition toward electric and autonomous vehicles. Major export markets include Mexico, Canada, Germany, and South Korea. The industry is experiencing a surge in EV-related exports and the development of smart mobility components.
Finished vehicles and motor vehicle components consistently rank among the top exports, especially to Canada and Mexico. Vehicles other than rail or tramway represent 7% of total U.S. export value, reflecting strong demand for American-made cars and EV technologies.
Market share: ~10%.
Focus: EV batteries, sensors, autonomous vehicle components.
Trend: Surge in exports to Mexico, Canada, and Germany.
5. Luxury Goods
This category features designer fashion, watches, jewelry, and premium accessories. U.S. luxury brands are widely recognized as symbols of status and quality, especially in emerging markets. Key destinations include China, the UAE, South Korea, and India. A notable trend in this sector is the rise of direct-to-consumer air shipments driven by e-commerce growth.
Market share: ~8%.
Key markets: China, UAE, South Korea.
Trend: Growth in direct-to-consumer air shipments via e-commerce.
6. Perishables (Food & Flowers)
This category includes lobster, salmon, berries, avocados, and fresh-cut flowers. U.S. perishables are highly valued for their quality and freshness, particularly in Asian markets. Major export destinations include Japan, South Korea, the UAE, and Hong Kong. The sector is seeing growth in temperature-controlled air cargo and the adoption of sustainable packaging solutions.
Market share: ~7%.
Key exports: Seafood, berries, florals.
Trend: Expansion of cold chain logistics and sustainable packaging.
7. Industrial Machinery
This sector includes CNC machines, robotics, sensors, and automation systems. U.S. machinery plays a crucial role in driving global manufacturing and infrastructure development. Key export markets include India, Brazil, Vietnam, and Poland. A major trend shaping the industry is the rising demand for smart factory equipment and AI-integrated systems.
Market share: ~6%.
Exports: CNC machines, robotics, automation systems.
Trend: Demand for smart factory equipment and AI-integrated systems.
8. Chemical Products
Crude oil, gasoline, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and refined petroleum products collectively represent the largest share of U.S. exports by value. In 2024, crude oil alone accounted for over $118 billion, and this figure continues to rise in 2025 due to strong global energy demand and expanded refining capacity.
This category encompasses specialty chemicals, adhesives, coatings, and polymers. U.S. chemical exports are essential to industries such as agriculture, construction, and electronics.
The U.S. exports large volumes of industrial materials:
- Plastics: $42 billion
- Resins and organic chemicals: $38 billion These are used in manufacturing, packaging, and construction worldwide.
Major markets include China, the Netherlands, Mexico, and South Africa. The sector is increasingly focused on green chemistry and the development of biodegradable compounds.
Market share: ~5%.
Exports: Specialty chemicals, adhesives, polymers.
Trend: Shift toward green chemistry and biodegradable compounds.
9. Art and Antiques
This category features fine art, rare books, vintage collectibles, and museum pieces. The U.S. serves as a major hub for cultural exchange and international art trade. Key markets include the UK, France, the UAE, and Switzerland. A growing trend in this sector is the rise of online auctions and private air shipments catering to global collectors.
Market share: ~2%.
Exports: Fine art, rare books, museum pieces.
Trend: Growth in online auctions and private air shipments.
10. Defense Equipment
This category includes tactical gear, surveillance systems, and non-lethal equipment. U.S. exports in this sector strengthen the defense capabilities of allied nations and support humanitarian missions. Key markets include NATO member countries, Israel, Japan, and Australia. The industry is increasingly emphasizing cybersecurity solutions and advanced drone technologies.
Market share: ~3%.
Exports: Tactical gear, surveillance systems.
Trend: Emphasis on cybersecurity tools and drone technologies.
Market Outlook
The U.S. air freight export market is projected to reach $49.85 billion in 2025, with expectations to grow steadily to $61.63 billion by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3%.
This growth is fueled by rising global demand for high-value, time-sensitive goods such as electronics and perishables, particularly from Asian markets, which remain the largest destination for American air cargo.
Freight rates are stabilizing following the volatility of the pandemic years, aided by expanded cargo capacity and favorable tariff extensions.
Meanwhile, the surge in e-commerce and the prioritization of premium goods are reshaping logistics strategies, with speed, reliability, and security becoming critical differentiators in air freight operations.
Other Products Most exported to other countries from USA
Low-Value Shipments and E-Commerce
Courier shipments and e-commerce parcels form a rapidly growing export segment, reaching $68 billion annually. These are primarily destined for Canada and Mexico, fueled by cross-border retail and digital commerce.
Natural Gas Liquid Processing
Processed gas products, including LNG and other refined gases, contribute over $56 billion to U.S. exports. These are critical for energy security in Europe and Asia.
Medical Instruments and Supplies
Medical devices and diagnostic equipment remain top-tier exports, totaling $37.8 billion. These are essential for hospitals, clinics, and research institutions globally.
Computer Chips and Electronics
Semiconductors and electronic components are key exports, especially to China and Mexico. Growth is driven by government incentives and global demand for AI, 5G, and consumer electronics.
Agricultural Products
Staples like soybeans, corn, and edible meat continue to be vital exports, comprising 8% of total U.S. export value. Asian and European markets are the primary consumers, supporting food security and trade balance.
Major Export Destinations
The top three destinations for U.S. exports in 2025 are:
- Canada
- Mexico
- China
Together, these countries account for 38% of total U.S. export value, reflecting strong regional trade agreements and consumer demand.
Conclusion
In 2025, the United States continues to dominate global trade with a diverse portfolio of high-value exports. The most exported product category remains oil and petroleum derivatives, followed closely by aircraft and aerospace components. These sectors, along with pharmaceuticals, automotive goods, and advanced electronics, form the backbone of U.S. export strength.
In 2025, the U.S. export economy is led by energy and aerospace, followed by pharmaceuticals, automotive goods, and electronics. These sectors not only represent the highest export values but also reflect America’s industrial and technological leadership on the global stage.
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