As the global economy adapts to evolving trade policies and geopolitical tensions, Houston’s international trade performance offers insight into the strength and adaptability of the region’s economy. The Greater Houston Partnership’s 2025 Global Houston report reveals how deep global relationships and sector strengths position the region to weather potential disruptions better than most.
“As the U.S. seeks fairer trade arrangements, the uncertainty is impacting some long-term investment decisions,” Partnership President and CEO Steve Kean said. “At the same time, we’re seeing increased interest in the Houston metro as a destination for onshoring. Our region enters this period from a position of strength – we’re not only the nation’s top exporting metro, but also a leader in population and GDP growth. Houston is well-positioned to adapt, respond and benefit from global economic shifts.”
Here’s what Houston’s top three global trading partners reflects about the region’s international ties:
1. The Netherlands moves to the top spot for the first time due to energy exports
Trade Value (2024): $31.9B | ↑ 23% YoY
With the Port of Rotterdam central to European fuel imports, Houston’s energy exports – particularly crude and refined petroleum – accounted for over 80% of Houston’s trade with the Netherlands last year. Europe’s shift away from Russian energy further solidified Houston’s role in Europe’s energy security strategy.
2. China slips to second, but remains a critical player
Trade Value (2024): $30.1B | ↓ 7% YoY
Exports to China dropped by a 14.5 percent, particularly in mineral fuels, plastics and organic chemicals. Rising tariffs have introduced uncertainty, but the scale of Houston-China trade reflects deep supply chain integration. China remains vital to Houston’s economy as a top source of industrial equipment, electronics and raw materials for regional manufacturers. Policy shifts could significantly impact local businesses.
3. Mexico holds steady as a regional anchor
Trade Value (2024): $24.9B | ↓ 13% YoY
Mexico is Houston’s most integrated trade partner, supplying inputs like auto parts, crude oil and industrial materials, while Houston exports fuels, chemicals and steel products. Cross-border trade is a cornerstone of Houston’s industrial competitiveness. Continued collaboration with Mexico will be key to maintaining supply chain efficiency.
Key Metrics from the Global Houston Report:
- #1 U.S. Exporting Metro: $180.9B in goods exported in 2024 (3.1% increase from 2023)
- Record Customs District Tonnage: 432.6M metric tons handled, ranking No. 1 nationally
- Total Trade Value: $376.3B through Houston/Galveston, ranking No. 4 among U.S. districts
- Foreign Direct Investment: 81 foreign-owned companies announced plans to relocate, expand or start operations; a 56% increase from 2023 when 52 international projects were announced. (increase is partially due to improved data sourcing)
- Global Connectivity:
- 13.1M international passengers traveled through Houston airports (record; a 4.2% increase over the 12.6 million passengers in ’23)
- 3.4M container units processed at Port Houston (record)
While the Netherlands, China and Mexico are the region’s top three trading partners, they account for only one-fourth of the region’s exports. The balance goes to 220 other countries.