Asias Biggest Exporters and Their Main Products
Asia is home to some of the world’s most dynamic economies, each contributing to a vast, diverse tapestry of global trade. From China’s manufacturing dominance and India’s tech-driven momentum to Japan’s high-tech industries and Saudi Arabia’s oil power, the continent’s range of export profiles is unparalleled. Below we highlight the top 20 Asian economies by GDP (PPP) – where PPP (Purchasing Power Parity) adjusts for price differences across countries to compare real living costs more accurately – and explore the products they most prominently ship abroad, painting a detailed picture of how Asia continues to shape global commerce.
1. China
GDP (PPP): - $37.1 trillion (2024), ~ €34.1 trillion
China is the largest economy in Asia (and the world in PPP terms), driven by a vast manufacturing sector and an expanding services industry. Key industries include electronics, machinery, automobiles, and high-technology manufacturing, alongside a growing digital economy. In recent years China has focused on upgrading its industrial base and boosting domestic consumption, though it still benefits from low-cost manufacturing and export-oriented growth. Economic trends show moderating growth as China transitions from heavy industry to higher-value tech and services, with government policy emphasizing innovation and supply-chain resiliency.
- Electrical machinery & equipment – $928.0 billion (26% of total exports) – Electronics and telecom equipment underline China’s position as a global export powerhouse.
- Machinery including computers – $568.3 billion (15.9%) – High-volume output of computers, industrial machinery, and automation systems.
- Vehicles – $216.1 billion (6.0%) – Rapidly rising car and parts exports, including electric vehicles, fueling China’s global automotive push.
2. India
GDP (PPP): - $16.0 trillion (2024), ~ €14.7 trillion
India is the second-largest Asian economy by PPP. It has a diversified economy with a large services sector (notably IT and business process outsourcing), a substantial industrial base (e.g. automobiles, pharmaceuticals, textiles), and agriculture still employing a large share of workers. Key industries include information technology, automotive manufacturing, chemical and pharmaceutical production, and textiles. India’s financial outlook is upbeat with strong domestic demand, though it faces challenges like infrastructure needs. Recent trends show India as one of the fastest-growing major economies, supported by its tech sector and government reforms, even as it works to boost manufacturing and improve its business climate.
- Mineral fuels (including refined petroleum) – $89.7 billion (20.8% of total exports) – India refines crude oil for re-export, leveraging its large refining capacity.
- Gems and precious metals – $33.4 billion (7.7%) – Diamonds and gold jewelry dominate this category, reflecting India’s huge gem cutting and jewelry sector.
- Electrical machinery & equipment – $32.4 billion (7.5%) – Electronics and telecom equipment highlight India’s increasing manufacturing scope.
3. Japan
GDP (PPP): - $6.57 trillion (2024), ~ €6.04 trillion
Japan is a highly developed economy known for its advanced manufacturing and technology. Key industries include automobile production, electronics, machinery, and precision instruments. Japan’s economy is characterized by “heavy industry and electrical sophistication,” and it is a world leader in automobile manufacturing and high-value engineering. The financial outlook is stable but low-growth, as Japan faces an aging population and strives to spur innovation. Current trends show Japan focusing on automation, high-tech manufacturing, and monetary easing to stimulate growth, while maintaining its status as a top exporter of cars and high-value tech goods.
- Vehicles – $150.8 billion (21.3% of total exports) – Automobiles (Toyota, Nissan, etc.) and related parts form Japan’s top earners.
- Machinery including computers – $125.7 billion (17.8%) – Industrial equipment, electronics manufacturing tools, and computing devices.
- Electrical machinery & equipment – $101.1 billion (14.3%) – Semiconductors, electronic components, and consumer electronics fuel Japan’s technology prominence.
4. Indonesia
GDP (PPP): - $4.66 trillion (2024), ~ €4.29 trillion
Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia, classified as an emerging market with a mixed economy. It has abundant natural resources and a growing manufacturing base. Key industries include mining and energy (a major coal, palm oil, and natural gas exporter), agriculture, and manufacturing (textiles, automotive, electronics assembly). Economic growth is driven by domestic consumption and commodities exports, with recent trends focusing on downstream processing of minerals (e.g. nickel for batteries) and infrastructure development. Indonesia’s financial outlook is positive with ~5% growth, supported by its commodity exports and a young population, though it aims to diversify beyond raw materials.
- Mineral fuels (including oil, coal, LNG) – $55.5 billion (21.0% of total exports) – Coal output anchors Indonesia’s status as a top global energy supplier.
- Animal/vegetable fats & oils – $26.8 billion (10.1%) – Chiefly palm oil, as Indonesia leads world production and export.
- Iron and steel – $25.8 billion (9.7%) – Rising metals exports, especially nickel-based steel, reflect growing smelting and industrial capacity.
5. Türkiye (Turkey)
GDP (PPP): - $3.46 trillion (2024), ~ €3.18 trillion
Türkiye is a transcontinental economy (largely in West Asia) and a G20 member, known for its diverse manufacturing and services. Key industries include automotive, machinery, textiles/apparel, agriculture, and a growing electronics/appliances sector. The country has a sizeable industrial base producing everything from cars to household appliances, and a large agricultural sector. Economic trends have been marked by high growth but also high inflation and currency volatility in recent years. The government’s outlook emphasizes exports and infrastructure, as well as diversification into higher-value manufacturing. Türkiye’s strategic location also makes it a regional trade hub.
- Vehicles – $30.8 billion (12.1% of total exports) – Car assembly and components remain central to Türkiye’s manufacturing success.
- Machinery including computers – $25.2 billion (9.9%) – Mechanical devices ranging from turbines to household appliances reflect Turkey’s industrial depth.
- Mineral fuels (incl. refined oil) – $16.4 billion (6.4%) – Turkey refines oil and also re-exports some petroleum products; net energy importer overall.
6. South Korea
GDP (PPP): - $3.26 trillion (2024), ~ €3.00 trillion
South Korea has a highly advanced, export-driven economy known for heavy industry and high-tech. Major industries include electronics (semiconductors, displays, mobile phones), automotive (Hyundai, Kia), shipbuilding, steel & chemicals, and ICT. Often cited as a model of rapid development, it blends “heavy industry and information and communication technology.” The country’s outlook remains solid, though growth is moderate; it invests heavily in semiconductors, AI, and 5G. Trends include robust R&D, with cultural exports (K-pop, dramas) adding to services revenue. South Korea’s emphasis on electronics and automotive underscores its global competitiveness.
- Electrical machinery & equipment – $171.3 billion (27.1% of total exports) – Semiconductors and telecom gear drive Korea’s electronics leadership.
- Vehicles – $91.8 billion (14.5%) – Cars (Hyundai, Kia) and parts keep South Korea among top global auto exporters.
- Machinery including computers – $72.8 billion (11.5%) – General machinery and computing hardware reflect the country’s innovation-driven manufacturing.
7. Saudi Arabia
GDP (PPP): - $2.11 trillion (2024), ~ €1.94 trillion
Saudi Arabia is the largest economy in the Middle East, heavily driven by its oil and gas sector. Petroleum historically accounts for a significant share of GDP, government revenue, and exports. Besides oil, key industries include petrochemicals, mining, and services. The Kingdom’s financial outlook is tied to oil prices, but its Vision 2030 plan pushes diversification (tourism, renewable energy, manufacturing). Current trends show high oil revenues funding giga-projects like NEOM, though oil remains the backbone of exports.
- Mineral fuels (oil & gas) – $251.4 billion (84.3% of total exports) – Crude oil is the bedrock of Saudi export income.
- Plastics & plastic articles – $16.0 billion (5.4%) – Petroleum feedstock enables large-scale plastics manufacturing (SABIC).
- Organic chemicals – $12.2 billion (4.1%) – Chemical derivatives from hydrocarbons expand the Kingdom’s petrochemical range.
8. Taiwan (Chinese Taipei)
GDP (PPP): - $1.84 trillion (2024), ~ €1.69 trillion
Taiwan has a dynamic capitalist economy largely driven by high-tech manufacturing and exports. It is renowned for its semiconductor industry (TSMC, etc.), electronics, machinery, and petrochemicals. Heavy industry and high-tech parts manufacturing are key characteristics. The financial outlook is robust due to strong global demand for chips, though geopolitical tensions pose risks. Trends include continued investment in semiconductor capacity, AI, and advanced manufacturing, with the government supporting R&D and innovation-led growth.
- Electrical machinery/electronics – A large share of total exports (over 30–40%), dominated by integrated circuits and electronic components for phones/computers – Semiconductors remain Taiwan’s #1 export item worldwide.
- Machinery including computers – Also a top category, covering industrial machinery, computing hardware – Reflects Taiwan’s role in tech supply chains.
- Plastics and chemicals – Substantial petrochemical outputs, leveraging Taiwan’s refining capacity – Bulk plastics and chemical feedstocks.
(These three easily exceed $200+ billion, over 40% of Taiwan’s total exports, ~11% of GDP.)
9. Thailand
GDP (PPP): - $1.77 trillion (2024), ~ €1.63 trillion
Thailand is an upper-middle income economy often called the “Detroit of Asia” for its automotive assembly. Key industries include vehicle production, electronics (hard drives, appliances), agriculture/food (rice, seafood), and a large tourism sector. Growth is moderate, with ~1.7% in 2024 forecast. Thailand invests in higher-tech manufacturing via its Eastern Economic Corridor projects, while maintaining strong agricultural exports. Automotive, electronics, and food processing continue to anchor exports, with tourism leading services.
- Electrical machinery & equipment – $49.5 billion (17.7% of total exports) – Electronics, computer parts, and appliances reflect Thailand’s electronics manufacturing hub.
- Machinery including computers – $40.4 billion (14.4%) – Ranges from office machine components to industrial equipment.
- Vehicles – $33.4 billion (12.0%) – Pickup trucks, passenger cars, and auto parts form the core of Thailand’s auto export.
10. Iran
GDP (PPP): - $1.70 trillion (2024), ~ €1.56 trillion
Iran’s economy is a mixed and transitional one with large oil & gas reserves, significant mineral wealth, and a diversified manufacturing base (petrochemicals, automotives, metals, agriculture). The energy sector historically is a major contributor, though sanctions hamper output. Key industries also include automobile manufacturing, chemicals, and agriculture (pistachios, saffron). The economic outlook is constrained by sanctions, high inflation, and currency depreciation, though Iran sustains a sizeable domestic industrial sector. Efforts to boost non-oil exports (petrochemicals, steel) and trade with regional allies aim to mitigate sanctions.
- Plastics & plastic articles – $2.2 billion (18.1% of total exports) – Petrochemical derivatives highlight Iran’s use of oil/gas feedstock.
- Ores, slag, and ash – $1.4 billion (11.7%) – Minerals such as iron ore, copper, and uranium reflect Iran’s mining potential.
- Mineral fuels including oil – $1.2 billion (10.4%) – Officially low due to sanctions; in practice, crude oil remains crucial to Iran’s economy.
11. Bangladesh
GDP (PPP): - $1.69 trillion (2024), ~ €1.56 trillion
Bangladesh is a rapidly growing South Asian economy, transitioning into a lower-middle income country. It is known for its textile and garment industry, which is the backbone of its exports, as well as agriculture (cotton, rice) and a developing services sector. The financial outlook is positive with strong manufacturing job growth, but infrastructure remains a challenge. Recent trends show continuing dominance of ready-made garments in exports, supported by stable labor costs and rising productivity. The government aims to expand into higher-value apparel and diversify into light engineering, leather, and IT services.
- Knitwear (knit clothing) – $25.6 billion (46.5% of total exports) – Major items like T-shirts, sweaters, underpin Bangladesh’s global apparel presence.
- Woven apparel (non-knit clothing) – $21.8 billion (39.6%) – Jeans, woven shirts, trousers reflect the second pillar of garment exports.
- Footwear – $1.4 billion (2.5%) – Leather and non-leather shoes represent a growing export niche.
12. Vietnam
GDP (PPP): - $1.63 trillion (2024), ~ €1.50 trillion
Vietnam is an emerging market with rapid growth, especially in electronics manufacturing, textiles, and agriculture. It has become a key link in global supply chains for smartphones, computers, and apparel. Key industries include electronics assembly (Samsung, etc.), garments, footwear, and agricultural products (coffee, rice). Economic outlook is strong with consistent FDI inflows, though global demand shifts can affect exports. Recent trends highlight the move to higher-value manufacturing, bolstered by free trade agreements and a focus on digital sectors.
- Electronics & electrical machinery – Encompasses phones, components, integrated circuits, making up ~40% of exports – Vietnam’s #1 category, driven by major multinationals.
- Textiles and garments – A large portion of total exports (15%+), spanning knit/woven apparel – Ranks among top global apparel suppliers.
- Footwear – Another significant line, with Vietnam a leading shoemaker – Combined with apparel, it’s a big labor-intensive export.
(Collectively >$120B, ~7–8% of GDP.)
13. Pakistan
GDP (PPP): - $1.58 trillion (2024), ~ €1.45 trillion
Pakistan’s economy has a large agricultural base (cotton, rice, livestock) and a growing but still limited industrial sector. Key industries include textiles/apparel (Pakistan is a major cotton grower and garment exporter), agriculture, some heavy manufacturing (cement, steel), and food processing. Economic growth has been hampered by macroeconomic imbalances, though reforms aim to stabilize. Current trends include attempts to diversify beyond textiles and improve infrastructure (CPEC), while dealing with energy shortages and high inflation.
- Miscellaneous textiles & worn clothing – $5.0 billion (17.3% of total exports) – Bedsheets, towels, and recycled materials from cotton-dominant industry.
- Knitwear (knit clothing) – $4.2 billion (14.5%) – Sweaters, T-shirts, etc., strongly leveraging local cotton.
- Woven garments (non-knit clothing) – $3.3 billion (11.6%) – Denim apparel, formal wear, forming Pakistan’s third major apparel segment.
14. Malaysia
GDP (PPP): - $1.37 trillion (2024), ~ €1.26 trillion
Malaysia is a well-diversified economy known for electronics and electrical products, oil & gas (PETRONAS), palm oil plantations, and chemicals. Key industries include semiconductor assembly, petrochemicals, palm oil processing, and machinery. The economic outlook is stable, with a consistent trade surplus. Recent trends involve higher-tech manufacturing investments, expansion of digital services, and efforts to move further up the value chain in electronics. Palm oil remains a major commodity export alongside refined petroleum.
- Electrical machinery & equipment – $119.1 billion (38.1% of total exports) – Semiconductors and consumer electronics form the backbone of Malaysia’s tech base.
- Mineral fuels (oil, LNG) – $51.7 billion (16.5%) – Crude oil, refined petroleum, and natural gas highlight Malaysia’s energy significance.
- Machinery including computers – $23.9 billion (7.7%) – Covers industrial systems and computing hardware in Malaysia’s manufacturing ecosystem.
15. Philippines
GDP (PPP): - $1.37 trillion (2024), ~ €1.26 trillion
The Philippines features a mixed economy with a strong services sector (including BPO and remittances) and a smaller manufacturing base. Major goods industries include electronics assembly (semiconductors, components), agriculture (coconuts, bananas), and mining. Economic growth is supported by domestic consumption and the BPO industry, though industrial expansion is modest. Current trends focus on infrastructure development (Build Build Build) and attracting FDI to broaden its manufacturing beyond electronics. Agriculture remains key in rural employment, but the largest export by far is electronics.
- Electrical machinery & equipment – $40.6 billion (55.6% of total exports) – Semiconductors and electronic components dominate the Philippines’ export mix.
- Machinery including computers – $6.3 billion (8.7%) – Office machine parts, data processing equipment complement the electronics sector.
- Copper – $2.51 billion (3.4%) – Unrefined copper and concentrates from the country’s mining sector.
16. Singapore
GDP (PPP): - $0.88 trillion (2024), ~ €0.81 trillion
Singapore is a highly developed, high-income city-state with a global financial center and commercial hub. Its economy thrives on electronics manufacturing (semiconductors), petrochemical refining, and services (banking, shipping, tourism). The economic outlook is steady, with growth in high-tech R&D and finance. Singapore invests in technology, biotech, and sustainable development to remain competitive, while its strategic port maintains leading status in global trade.
- Electrical machinery & equipment – $161.7 billion (34.0% of total exports) – Semiconductors, circuits, and telecom gear show Singapore’s electronics depth.
- Machinery including computers – $74.1 billion (15.6%) – Industrial equipment and advanced computer systems form a notable export pillar.
- Mineral fuels including oil – $58.8 billion (12.4%) – A major refining hub for petroleum and chemicals, despite no domestic crude.
17. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
GDP (PPP): - $0.85 trillion (2024), ~ €0.78 trillion
The UAE has a highly open economy historically dominated by oil (mainly in Abu Dhabi), but Dubai’s trade, tourism, and finance lead diversification. Major industries include petroleum extraction, petrochemicals, aluminum, tourism, real estate, and re-export trade. The financial outlook remains robust, thanks to oil revenues and pro-business policies, though the UAE is fast-tracking moves into renewables and advanced manufacturing under its Vision 2021/2030. Dubai’s economic model revolves around logistics, retail, and property, while Abu Dhabi anchors hydrocarbons.
- Mineral fuels (oil & gas) – $174.3 billion (62.2% of total exports) – Crude oil plus refined products remain the bedrock of UAE’s foreign income.
- Gems and precious metals – $56.8 billion (20.3%) – Gold and diamonds trading center in Dubai shapes this large precious metals export.
- Aluminum – $7.7 billion (2.7%) – Emirates Global Aluminium is a key player, boosting primary aluminum exports globally.
18. Kazakhstan
GDP (PPP): - $0.83 trillion (2024), ~ €0.76 trillion
Kazakhstan is Central Asia’s largest economy, fueled by oil production (Caspian fields) and mining (uranium, iron ore, copper, coal). Key industries include oil & gas, metallurgy, chemicals, and agriculture (wheat). Economic growth depends on commodity prices; the government aims to diversify and industrialize, benefiting from its strategic location linking Europe and Asia. Trends show emphasis on downstream mineral processing and attracting foreign investment, plus integration with China’s BRI for infrastructure.
- Mineral fuels including oil – $46.4 billion (58.9% of total exports) – Crude oil from the Caspian region is Kazakhstan’s prime earner.
- Ores, slag, and ash – $5.0 billion (6.3%) – Iron ore, uranium, and other mineral exports define the country’s mining strength.
- Inorganic chemicals – $4.3 billion (5.5%) – Reflecting chemical derivatives from the country’s mineral wealth.
19. Iraq
GDP (PPP): - $0.66 trillion (2024), ~ €0.61 trillion
Iraq’s economy is overwhelmingly based on oil, possessing some of the largest proven crude reserves. Other sectors (agriculture, manufacturing) remain relatively underdeveloped or recovering from conflict. Oil revenues dominate GDP, government budgets, and trade. The financial outlook depends heavily on oil price levels, with reconstruction and diversification as policy goals. Current trends show stable production but vulnerability to price swings. Ongoing challenges include fiscal management and rebuilding infrastructure.
- Mineral fuels including oil – $107.6 billion (99.3% of total exports) – Crude oil exports provide nearly all foreign earnings.
- Gems, precious metals – $149.8 million (0.1%) – Small re-exports of gold/precious metals.
- Animal/vegetable fats and oils – $121.1 million (0.1%) – Minor category of edible oils (re-exported or locally produced in small volume).
20. Israel
GDP (PPP): - $0.57 trillion (2024), ~ €0.52 trillion
Israel is a developed, innovation-driven economy labeled the “Start-up Nation.” Major sectors include technology/software, electronics, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and diamond cutting/trading. The financial outlook is robust, but geopolitical risks persist. Government supports high-tech, R&D, and entrepreneurship, making Israel a global hub for cybersecurity, AI, and advanced manufacturing. Services (software, R&D) are also critical, although they don’t appear in goods exports data.
- Electrical machinery & equipment – $13.1 billion (21.4% of total exports) – High-tech electronics, communications gear, and semiconductors define Israel’s hardware exports.
- Optical, technical & medical instruments – $7.5 billion (12.3%) – Medical devices, diagnostic equipment, and precision instruments buoy Israel’s med-tech leadership.
- Gems and precious metals – $6.5 billion (10.6%) – Primarily polished diamonds, reflecting Israel’s historical role in diamond cutting/trading.
Check Out Other Main Exporters in the World
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