HOUSTON (May 1, 2025) — In a year marked by shifting trade policies and geopolitical tensions, Houston is entering 2025 with a remarkable competitive edge.
According to the recently published 2025 Global Houston report by the Greater Houston Partnership, the region stood out as the top metro area in the U.S. for exports, with a substantial $180.9 billion in goods shipped in 2024, reflecting a 3.1% increase from the previous year.
This report, which draws from 2024 data collected before more recent policy changes, underscores Houston’s robust industrial base, reliable infrastructure, and extensive international relationships, all of which enhance the region’s resilience against trade disruptions.
Steve Kean, the Partnership’s President and CEO, shared insights into the current economic situation, noting, “As the U.S. seeks fairer trade arrangements, the uncertainty is impacting some long-term investment decisions.
Yet, we are also witnessing a brighter interest in Houston as a key location for onshoring.
Our region steps into this challenging terrain from a position of strength — not only are we the country’s leading exporting metro, but we are also experiencing significant population and GDP growth.
Houston is well-equipped to adapt to and thrive amidst global economic changes.”
One notable aspect of Houston’s economic profile is its status within the Houston/Galveston Customs District, one of only ten in the United States where exports exceed imports.
This situation highlights the region’s strong global demand coupled with its substantial production capacity.
Key findings from the Global Houston Report exhibit the following metrics:
– **Top U.S. Exporting Metro:** Houston led with $180.9 billion in exports in 2024, up 3.1% from 2023.
– **Record Tonnage:** The Customs District handled a staggering 432.6 million metric tons, maintaining its position as the number one district nationally.
– **Total Trade Value:** The overall trade value through Houston/Galveston reached $376.3 billion, ranking fourth among U.S. districts.
– **Foreign Direct Investment:** A total of 81 foreign-owned companies have announced plans to relocate, expand, or initiate operations in the area, marking a 56% increase from 2023’s total of 52 international projects.
This increase in foreign investment is also partly attributed to enhanced data sourcing practices.
In terms of connectivity, Houston saw 3.1 million international passengers travel through its airports in 2024, a record-setting increase of 4.2% over the 12.6 million passengers in 2023.
Additionally, the Port of Houston processed a record number of 3.4 million container units.
The region’s workforce continues to grow, with nearly 65% of population growth in 2024 stemming from international migration.
Energy remains a dominant sector in Houston’s export economy.
In 2024, oil and refined petroleum products represented over half (52.1%) of all trade value through the Houston/Galveston Customs District, accounting for $196.1 billion, with 88% of that volume exported.
Looking ahead, the U.S. Energy Information Administration anticipates that global oil demand will hit a record 103.6 million barrels per day in 2025, albeit slightly below earlier predictions.
Potential factors such as lower oil price forecasts and new trade barriers may also lead Texas producers to reconsider new drilling initiatives, which could subsequently impact export levels through the Houston/Galveston District.
The report also outlines the leading trading partners of Houston in 2024:
1. Netherlands: $31.9 billion (↑ 23%)
2. China: $30.1 billion (↓ 7%)
3. Mexico: $24.9 billion (↓ 13%)
4. South Korea: $23.8 billion (↑ 4%)
5. Germany: $16.9 billion (↑ 10%)
6. Brazil: $16.8 billion (↑ 6%)
7. United Kingdom: $15.0 billion (↑ 6%)
8. Japan: $13.5 billion (↑ 3%)
9. India: $13.2 billion (↓ 0.8%)
10. Canada: $11.5 billion (↑ 22%)
The Global Houston Report, produced annually by the Greater Houston Partnership’s Research team, provides crucial insights into the region’s international trade landscape, foreign investment influx, migration trends, and sector strengths.
This analysis serves as an indispensable resource to support businesses in navigating an increasingly intricate global marketplace.
For further details, access the full report, here.
image source from：https://www.houston.org/news/report-houstons-global-strengths-position-region-navigate-trade-uncertainty
