What Are the Top U.S. Imports? [2026]

As the world’s largest economy and one of the most significant trading nations, the United States depends heavily on imports to support its industries, meet consumer demand and drive innovation. In 2025, the United States imported a record $3.44 trillion in goods, reflecting the country’s role as a major buyer in the global marketplace.

But shifting trade policies and rising tariffs continue to create uncertainty for U.S. importers. Increased costs, complex compliance requirement and supply chain disruptions make it harder to remain competitive. Businesses need to stay informed and be prepared to adjust their strategies as trade policies shift.

In this article, we’ll explore the top U.S. imports based on the most recent trade data from the U.S. Census Bureau, highlighting key trends that are shaping international commerce. We’ll also take a closer look at the top trading partners supplying these imports and share some powerful tools to help you manage the uncertainty of shifting tariffs and evolving trade regulations.

Top U.S. Imports (By Value)

Based on FT-900 Exhibit 8 from Census, the following were the largest U.S. import commodities by value in 2025:

1. Pharmaceutical preparations: $287 billion

9.15% of total imports

Pharmaceutical preparations are now one of the largest U.S. imports. Many high-value medicines and biologics are manufactured in Europe and imported into the United States.

2. Computers: $218 billion

6.96% of total imports

The United States imports large quantities of computers and computing equipment to support consumer electronics markets and business technology infrastructure.

3. Passenger cars: $179 billion

5.72% of total imports

Passenger vehicles remain one of the most significant U.S. imports due to strong domestic demand and globally integrated automotive supply chains.

4. Computer accessories: $143 billion

4.57% of total imports

The United States imports large quantities of computers and computing equipment to support consumer electronics markets and business technology infrastructure.

5. Crude oil: $140 billion

4.46% of total imports

Even though the United States is one of the world’s largest oil producers, it continues to import crude oil to meet refinery needs and supply regional fuel markets. Much of these imports come from nearby trading partners, particularly Canada.

Additional Top U.S. Import Commodities

The remaining top 10 import commodities included:

• Other automotive parts and accessories 
• Telecommunications equipment 
• Cell phones and other household goods
• Electric apparatus 
• Finished metal shapes

Top Countries Supplying U.S. Imports

The United States relies heavily on imports from a relatively small number of major trading partners.

Based on Census data, the largest suppliers of goods to the United States in 2025 were:

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, “Top Trading Partners – December 2025” (Year-to-Date Imports; goods only, Census basis, unrevised).

North American partners Mexico and Canada alone account for more than one-quarter of U.S. imports, reflecting the importance of integrated regional supply chains under the USMCA trade agreement.

Looking for New Markets?

We've written a series of articles exploring exporting to specific countries across the globe, including ASEAN countries, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, the EU, France, Germany, India, Israel, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and the United Kingdom.

What This Means for U.S. Importers

In an increasingly competitive global market, rising tariffs and shifting trade policies in 2026 are making it harder for U.S. businesses to maintain profit margins. Importers who fail to accurately calculate total costs or overlook compliance requirements risk losing their competitive edge, or worse, facing costly penalties and supply chain disruptions.

To succeed in this challenging environment, businesses need to be proactive, strategic and well-informed. That’s where Shipping Solutions' tools come in—giving you the insights and control you need to stay competitive, even as the trade landscape shifts.

Landed Cost Calculator

With tariffs and trade policies in flux, understanding the true cost of your imported goods is more important than ever. A product that looks like a bargain at the supplier’s price could end up costing far more once you factor in shipping fees, insurance, duties and taxes. Failing to account for these costs can lead to shrinking margins—or even losses.

Our Landed Cost Calculator helps you stay competitive by calculating the total landed cost of your imported goods, including:

• Import duties
• VAT and excise taxes
• Government fees
• Anti-dumping and countervailing duties

The calculator also allows you to compare up to five different sourcing options side-by-side. Should you import from China or Mexico? Would sourcing domestically be more cost-effective after tariffs and duties are applied? The Landed Cost Calculator gives you the data to make smart decisions.

Import Controls Software

Tariff changes and evolving import regulations mean more risk for businesses that aren't prepared. Every product you import must meet U.S. Customs and Border Protection requirements—and that means more than just paying the correct duty. You need to know:

• Whether import licenses or permits are required
• If your product is subject to quotas or restrictions
• Whether anti-dumping or countervailing duties apply
• If certificates of origin or product compliance are needed

With our Import Controls Software, just enter your product’s HS code, along with the country of import, manufacture and export. The software will instantly provide a list of all applicable import controls, so you can avoid costly delays and penalties—and keep your supply chain running smoothly.

Sign up here for a free trial subscription of the Landed Cost Calculator and Import Controls Software. 

If You Liked This List...

• What Are the Top U.S. Exports? [2026]
• Top U.S. Trading Partners [2026]
• The World’s Busiest Ports: Top Global and U.S. Shipping Hubs

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