New Report Underscores Importance of International Trade to Manufacturers in Illinois and Across Midwest
Midwest states exported $390 billion in manufactured goods in 2024, including $69 billion from Illinois
SPRINGFIELD — A new report found Illinois manufacturers exported nearly $69 billion in goods to countries around the globe last year, generating strong economic investment and creating jobs in communities throughout the state.
The study, conducted by the Midwest Manufacturing Association and released in partnership with the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, demonstrates the vital role international trade plays in the economy, allowing manufacturers to expand their customer base, operate at larger scales, and access materials and components that may not be available domestically. Its release comes during the 2025 Farm Progress Show in Decatur, where manufacturing represents 50 percent of the area’s GDP, underscoring the unique partnership between agriculture and manufacturing.
“Trade is critical to the success of Illinois and American manufacturing. As the Trump Administration prioritizes trade policy, including tariffs, this report underscores the need for a balanced approach,” said Mark Denzler, President and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association. “We must focus on maintaining and growing relationships with long-term trading partners, while standing up to bad actors who steal intellectual property and cheat the system. It is also imperative that focus be placed on more comprehensive reforms to bolster American manufacturing, including regulatory and permitting reform, and unleashing energy resources.”
In 2024, the thirteen states comprising the Midwest exported an estimated $390 billion in manufactured goods, representing 22 percent of all U.S. exports. Canada and Mexico remain the region’s top trading partners, purchasing approximately $195 billion in goods, supported by longstanding free trade agreements and geographical proximity.
Those two countries are also Illinois’ top trading partners, the state exporting $20 billion in goods to Canada, and another $13 billion in goods to Mexico. Australia is Illinois’ third-largest export market, receiving $4.7 billion in goods annually. The largest export industries in Illinois include pharmaceuticals and medicine, agriculture and construction machinery, motor vehicle parts, communications equipment, and navigational and control instruments. Overall, the report found exports support six percent of all jobs in Illinois.
The study also found the Midwest increasingly relies on imports to meet domestic demand. Canada and Mexico are again top sources, accounting for approximately $321 billion in imported goods in 2024. Asia is not far behind, with $278 billion in imports to the Midwest – including $99 billion in goods imported from China alone.
In Illinois, Canada is the largest source of imports, with nearly $64 billion annually, followed by China at $42 billion with Mexico coming in third with $19 billion. Top imported products to Illinois include oil and gas, communications equipment, pharmaceuticals and medicines, computer equipment, and beverages.
While imports are often viewed as a loss to the economy, the report emphasizes the nature of trade is evolving. As the global economy is increasingly interconnected, more companies operate internationally, with facilities and supply chains across the world. That means increased imports also reflect internal businesses strategies in addition to traditional market competition, as imports supply vital inputs American manufacturers need to make their products.
To view the complete Midwest Manufacturing Trade and Foreign Investment Review Click Here
To view the Illinois State Summary Click Here
