The United States and India enjoy a robust trade relationship. In 2023 alone, the U.S. imported a staggering US$87.28 billion worth of goods from India, according to the latest United Nations COMTRADE database data. But what exactly does the U.S. buy from India? This article explores the range of products that make their way from India to American shores.
Pearls, precious stones, metals, coins
Value: $12.36 Billion
According to the United Nations COMTRADE database, in 2023, the United States imported a significant amount of pearls, precious stones, metals, and coins from India. The biggest imports in this category are diamonds, followed by jewelry, with other gemstones, pearls, and costume jewelry making up the rest.
Electrical, Electronic Equipment
Value: $12.08 Billion
The U.S. imported a staggering $12 billion worth of electrical equipment from India in 2023. This includes parts for phones and computers ($2 billion), wires and electrical tools ($2 billion), and power equipment like transformers ($1 billion). But that’s not all. India also sends smartphones, laptops, T.V.s, and other electronics to the U.S., making it a major player in the electronics world.
Pharmaceutical Products
Value: $10.97 Billion
The United States buys various medicines and medical products from India. In 2023, the total value of these imports was $10.97 billion. The main categories include packaged medicines for retail sale, blood products, vaccines, and bandages. India is the fourth-largest exporter of pharmaceuticals to the U.S., accounting for about 6% of U.S. pharmaceutical imports.
Machinery, Nuclear Reactors, Boilers
Value: $6.67 Billion
In 2023, the United States imported $6.67 billion worth of machinery, nuclear reactors, and boilers from India. Some specific categories include transmission shafts, valves, internal combustion engine parts, pumps, and other mechanical appliances. India plays a significant role in supplying these essential goods to the U.S. market.
Mineral Fuels, oils, Distillation Products
Value: $5.14 Billion
The United States regularly imports mineral fuels, oils, and distillation products from India. These products include petroleum oils, natural gas, and other energy-related commodities. India plays a significant role in supplying these essential goods to the U.S. market. Energy imports involve geopolitical dynamics. Partnering with reliable countries like India is essential for energy security. By working together, the U.S. reduces the risk of running low on fuel if there are problems with other suppliers.
Organic Chemicals
Value: $3.68 Billion
In 2023, the United States imported $3.86 billion of organic chemicals from India. These chemicals serve various purposes and are used in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and manufacturing industries. India ranks sixth globally for chemical production and takes the third spot in Asia.
Textile Articles, Worn Clothing
Value: $2.92 Billion
India supplies the U.S. with a diverse selection of textiles, not just apparel. In 2023, bed linens, tablecloths, and towels were the biggest category at $2.14 billion. Other highlights include sacks and bags for packaging ($282 million), furnishing items like tapestries ($156 million), and a range of different textile goods like blankets and curtains (around $122 million and $61 million, respectively). Even used clothing and rags contributed to the total, though at a much smaller amount. This shows the depth and variety of textile products the U.S. gets from India.
Articles of Iron or Steel
Value: $2.88 Billion
The United States relies on India for many iron and steel goods. This includes everything from large structural components for buildings ($716 million) down to everyday items like screws, nails, and kitchenware (around $243 million and $89 million respectively). Pipes and tubes are another big import category, with seamless options reaching $171 million and welded varieties at $210 million combined. Even less common items like springs, chains, and barbeques comprise a small portion of this import trade.
Vehicles Other Than Railway, Tramway
Value: $2.70 Billion
The U.S. bought many vehicles from India, totaling $2.7 billion in 2023. Car parts and accessories are the biggest import, valued at nearly $2 billion. Interestingly, tractors are another major import, valued at $425 million. Motorcycles, trailers, and even bicycle parts are also on the list. While most vehicles are for civilian use, a small number are special-purpose vehicles and even tanks.
Articles Of Apparel, Not Knit Or Crocheted
Value: $2.53 Billion
The U.S. imports a wide variety of non-knit clothes from India. Women’s clothing dominates the list, with dresses, suits, and blouses being the top picks at over $1.3 billion combined. Men’s shirts and suits are another significant import at nearly $600 million. Swimwear, tracksuits, and other garments round out the category at $278 million. Smaller items like scarves, handkerchiefs, and ties contribute to this substantial clothing trade between the U.S. and India.
Articles Of Apparel, Knit Or Crocheted
Value: $2.14 Billion
The US is a big customer of India’s knitwear, importing $2.14 billion worth of products in 2023. This includes everything from cozy sweaters and t-shirts (over $850 million combined) to pajamas and undergarments for men and women (around $360 million). You can even find dresses, suits, and socks in this import category. This shows the wide range of knitted clothing the U.S. gets from India.
Fish, Crustaceans, Mollusks, Aquatic Invertebrates
Value: $2.03 Billion
The U.S. imports a variety of seafood from India. In 2023, the total value of imports was $2 billion. Crustaceans, like shrimp or crab, were the star of the show, valued at $1.93 billion. Live mollusks, including oysters or clams, also make up a significant portion of imports at $66.63 million. The U.S. also buys fish from India in various forms, including fresh, frozen, filleted, and dried varieties.