With an uncertain tariff landscape and geopolitical strain in various parts of the world, international trade remains strong, with nearly 4% growth in 2025-2026. A strong supply chain is critical to supporting this growth, in which 3PLs play a pivotal role. Early 2026 data shows top exports in the U.S. as the following.
- Oil Drilling & Gas Extraction – $182.2 Billion
This industry includes oil field, natural gas, and liquified natural gas. The oil and gas industry is at high risk for volatility in price and supply due to the growing conflict in the Middle East. - Aircraft, Engine & Parts Manufacturing – $144.3 Billion
A post-pandemic surge in air travel, outdated plane inventory, and defense spending has placed the aerospace industry at the top of our list. This industry is expected to grow by more than 3.3% in 2026 as global tensions continue. - Petroleum Refining – $115.2 Billion
Crude oil is the foundation of many valuable commodities such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, but it requires refining processes such as distillation, cracking, reforming, and treatment to change its structure for use. Global conflicts will also add high volatility to the health of the petroleum market. - Pharmaceuticals – $99.6 Billion
The pharmaceutical industry has advanced its ability to research, produce, and distribute vaccinations quickly to meet specialized medical treatments in oncology, obesity, and immunology. High-cost, brand-name prescriptions, and an increase in insurance coverage have contributed to the growth of pharmaceuticals. - Biotechnology – $92.8 Billion
Biotechnology has diverse applications in medicine, agriculture, and manufacturing industries—creating resilience to meet domestic or global economic demands. The role of biotechnology in development of the COVID-19 vaccine had a large effect on the success of this industry. - Natural Gas Liquid Processing – $56.3 Billion
Advanced extracting processes such as hydraulic fracturing have fueled a 17% growth of the natural gas industry in 2025. - Automotive Manufacturing – $49.3 Billion
Electrical vehicle technology and autonomous driving has contributed to growth of the automotive industry over the last few years; however, fluctuation in consumer demand and regulatory support has created a decline. Other barriers to automotive growth include tariffs, inflation, and high interest rates. - Plastic & Resin Manufacturing – $41.5 Billion
Plastics are used in a variety of industries most notably consumer goods, automotive, and construction. The industry has engineered thermoplastics used in lighter vehicles and electronics. Environmental and recyclability concerns in the daily use of plastics continue to challenge the industry. - Organic Chemical Manufacturing – $37.8 Billion
Chemical manufacturing is tied to many other industries including industrial manufacturing, consumer goods, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. Sustainability within the chemical industry has contributed to rising prices and innovation. - Medical Supplies Manufacturing – $31.9 Billion
Widespread access to healthcare and insurance coverage in the U.S. has contributed to a high demand for medical supplies. Additionally, an aging population and more government funded coverage has created pressure on the industry to reduce spending on supplies.