US-India Trade

Why It Matters

Even a small share signals growing economic interdependence, and the geographic concentration highlights untapped regional opportunities for deeper U.S.–India trade ties.

Key Takeaways

• US-India trade volumes have steadily increased since 1990s
• Exports to India represent ~2.5% of US total exports
• Imports from India account for ~3% of US total imports
• Top exporting states range $777M‑$5.7B, mainly coastal
• FRED tools enable detailed trade visualizations and state maps

Pulse Analysis

The United States and India have moved from niche partners to increasingly significant trade allies over the past four decades. While the absolute dollar figures have climbed, the bilateral relationship still represents a fraction of the United States’ global commerce—just over two percent of exports and three percent of imports as of early 2026. This modest share masks a broader strategic shift: both economies are diversifying supply chains, reducing reliance on traditional partners, and seeking growth in high‑tech, services, and renewable sectors. Understanding these trends requires more than headline numbers; it demands granular data that reveal where the trade is actually happening.

State‑level analysis uncovers a striking concentration of Indian‑bound exports along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, with Illinois, Louisiana, Florida, and Georgia also featuring prominently. In 2022, the top exporters generated between $777 million and $5.72 billion, underscoring the role of major ports and logistics hubs. These patterns suggest that coastal infrastructure, skilled labor pools, and sectoral expertise—particularly in aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and information technology—drive the trade flow. For policymakers and business leaders, the map highlights regions ripe for investment, workforce development, and targeted trade missions to expand the U.S. footprint in Indian markets.

The detailed visualizations were built using FRED’s publicly available series, demonstrating how open data can inform trade strategy. By layering export and import series, applying share formulas, and mapping state values, analysts can quickly spot growth hotspots and monitor policy impacts, such as tariff adjustments or new bilateral agreements. As the U.S. and India negotiate deeper trade accords, data‑driven insights will be crucial for aligning regional economic development with national objectives, ensuring that the modest current share can evolve into a more substantial, diversified partnership.