Alabama brought in $23.7 billion through international trade in 2025, shipping goods to 190 countries around the globe with key gains in emerging markets in India and Vietnam.
The 2025 total is a dip from 2024’s total of $26.8 billion, which was down from the previous year’s record $27.4 billion.
State officials attributed the drop to a marked drop in trade with China — down 52% — and a softening world market for automotive products produced in the U.S.
“Exports are a key driver of economic growth throughout Alabama, supporting thousands of jobs and communities,” Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair said. “It is crucial that we continue to provide the support companies need to find new markets for their products worldwide and connect them with decision-makers who will help them be successful.
“While global automotive demand softened in 2025, Alabama continued building momentum in high-growth sectors such as aerospace while expanding opportunities in emerging international markets,” McNair added.
“Our substantial auto exports business means that swings in the global industry will certainly be seen in our numbers,” McNair said. “But our strong advanced manufacturing foundation is helping to propel more companies in aerospace and other high-growth industries in growing their export business.”
Transportation products, including both automotive and aerospace, continued to lead the state’s export numbers, totaling $11.4 billion in goods shipped. While automotive dropped 23%, aerospace grew 12%. Chemicals, primary metals, minerals and ores are also key exports for Alabama.
Canada is the top destination for Alabama exports, at $4.3 billion, followed by Mexico, Germany, China and India.
Imports totaled $34.9 billion in 2025, down 10%, with Mexico the top source, followed by South Korea, Germany, Canada and China.
