HOUSTON (May 8, 2026) – Houston remained the nation’s top exporting metro in 2025 as shifting trade patterns, evolving supply chains, and continued global demand reinforced the region’s role as a leading hub for international trade and investment. The findings are drawn from the Greater Houston Partnership’s 2026 Global Houston report, which provides a comprehensive assessment of the region’s international trade activity, foreign direct investment and global connectivity.
The Houston/Galveston Customs District remained the nation’s leading gateway by tonnage in 2025, handling 426.5 million metric tons of goods and commodities. That tonnage was a modest 0.8% decline from 2024, a measure of the region’s durability in an environment where other major trade corridors experienced more pronounced disruptions.
Exports accounted for nearly 70% of the district’s $353.7 billion total trade value in 2025, underscoring the region’s continued importance in moving energy, chemicals, manufactured products, and other goods to global markets.
The Netherlands retained its position as the district’s top trading partner, driven by $26.7 billion in crude oil and refined petroleum exports that are consumed across European markets. While trade with China and Mexico declined amid changing tariff policies and supply chain adjustments, Houston saw growing trade activity with several Asian markets, including India, Vietnam and Thailand.
Key Findings from the 2026 Global Houston Report
- Houston remained the No. 1 exporting metro in the United States with $177.3 billion in exported goods and commodities.
- The Houston-Galveston Customs District ranked No. 5 nationally in total trade value at $353.7 billion.
- Exports accounted for nearly 70% of the district’s total trade value.
- Port Houston set a record for container traffic with 4.3 million twenty-foot-equivalent container units (TEUs) handled, a 3.9% increase over 2024.
- In 2025, 117 foreign-owned companies announced plans to relocate or expand in the Houston region, an increase from 81 in 2024.
- The Houston Airport System handled a record 13.3 million international passengers in 2025, driven by growing travel to and from Latin America.
Top Trading Partners in 2025
1. Netherlands
2. South Korea
3. Mexico
4. China
5. Brazil
6. Germany
7. India
8. Japan
9. Canada
10. United Kingdom
About the Report
Produced annually by the Greater Houston Partnership’s Research team, the Global Houston Report analyzes the region’s international trade, foreign investment, migration trends and sector strengths. It serves as a key resource for companies navigating an increasingly complex global business landscape.
Access the full report here.
CONTACT:
Brina Morales
Sr. Director, Communications
[email protected]