France's Major Export Products to the USA in 2020 and Beyond

Trades between the USA and France have a long and rich history, dating back to 1776. In 2019, the USA imported approximately 47 billion USD worth of goods from France. This article delves into the detailed list of major products imported by the USA from France, and how these trade relations have evolved in recent years.

The Most Imported Products from France to the USA

1. Machinery, Boilers, Nuclear Reactors: 11.7 Billion USD

One of the top products imported from France to the USA is machinery, including boilers and nuclear reactors. These industrial goods represent a significant portion of the total imports, underscoring the importance of France's advanced manufacturing and engineering sectors.

Key Benefits and Applications

Machinery and related equipment imported from France are critical for the industrial development of the USA. These products help enhance productivity and add value to manufacturing processes across various sectors including energy, construction, and advanced manufacturing.

2. Aircraft and Spacecraft: 5.6 Billion USD

The USA also imports substantial amounts of aircraft and spacecraft from France. This includes commercial and military aircraft, as well as components for space exploration.

Market Analysis

France, a global leader in aviation, has a significant presence in the USA market. Companies like Dassault Aviation and Airbus significantly contribute to this import category. The USA relies on French aerospace expertise for research and development, manufacturing, and maintenance of both commercial and military aircraft.

3. Pharmaceuticals: 5.0 Billion USD

Pharmaceutical products imported from France include a wide range of drugs and medical supplies. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and medical devices.

Trends and Innovations

France has a strong pharmaceutical sector, producing cutting-edge drugs and medical equipment. The USA benefits from these imports, particularly in the context of medical supplies and crisis management, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

4. Beverages, Spirits, and Vinegar: 4.48 Billion USD

Beverages, including spirits and vinegar, are another major category of imports from France to the USA. French wines, cognacs, and other spirits have long been popular in the USA.

Consumer Preferences and Export Trends

The popularity of French beverages in the USA points to the strong consumer preference for high-quality, artisanal products. This demand drives French producers to expand their product lines and export volumes, benefiting from the established trade relations.

5. Electrical Machinery: 2.58 Billion USD

This category includes a wide array of electrical products, from household appliances to industrial equipment.

Market Demand and Innovation

The USA's demand for reliable and innovative electrical machinery is met by French manufacturers like Schneider Electric and Groupe SEB. These products enhance the technological landscape of the USA's manufacturing and residential sectors.

6. Optical, Surgical, and Medical Instruments: 2.12 Billion USD

Optical and medical equipment, such as surgical instruments, play a crucial role in the health and medical sectors of the USA.

Healthcare Innovations

France's leadership in medical technology contributes significantly to this category. Products from companies like Sorin Group and Valeant Pharmaceuticals are amongst the top imports, supporting advanced medical practices and research in the USA.

7. Essential Oils, Perfumes, Cosmetics, and Toiletries: 1.92 Billion USD

France is renowned for its aromatic and cosmetic products. Essential oils, perfumes, cosmetics, and toiletries form an integral part of this category.

Sustainability and Quality

The USA market highly values the high quality and natural ingredients used in French aromatic and cosmetic products. This drives consumer interest and purchase decisions, bolstering French exports.

8. Leather Products: 1.19 Billion USD

French leather products, such as wallets, handbags, and clothing, are highly sought after by consumers. Their craftsmanship and quality are market leaders.

Consumer Demand and Market Trends

The USA market for French leather goods is characterized by a demand for luxury and premium quality. The popularity of these products reflects the ongoing trade agreement and the strong relationship between the two countries.

9. Iron and Steel: 823 Million USD

Imported iron and steel products from France are diverse and include construction materials and industrial uses.

Industrial Applications

The USA benefits from high-quality French steel products in various construction and manufacturing industries. French steel manufacturers such as ArcelorMittal and Vallourec contribute significantly to this import category.

10. Miscellaneous Chemical Products: 822 Million USD

France is a major exporter of various chemical products to the USA, which are used in numerous industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and personal care.

Industrial and Consumer Uses

The range of chemical products from France includes raw materials for pharmaceutical production, fertilizers, and personal care products. These products cater to both industrial and consumer needs in the USA.

Diplomatic and Economic Relations

The USA and France share a long-standing diplomatic, social, economic, and cultural relationship. This cooperation has led to increased trade and mutual benefit. However, recent trade tensions, particularly over digital services taxes, have affected certain aspects of their trade relations.

1. The USTR Response

In response to a digital services tax law passed in France, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced retaliatory tariffs on luxury products from France. This impacted certain categories of imports between the two countries, leading to a reevaluation of trade dynamics.

Impact on Trade

Notwithstanding these tensions, overall exports from France to the USA have shown a positive trajectory. For instance, in February 2020, the value of exports from France to the USA was reported at 3199 EUR Million, up from 3136 EUR Million in January 2020.

2. Major Export Products to the USA

Machinery, Nuclear Reactors, Boilers: 13.11B Aircraft, Spacecraft: 7.37B Beverages, Spirits, Vinegar: 5.28B Commodities not specified according to kind: 5.15B Pharmaceutical Products: 3.48B Works of Art, Collectors Pieces, and Antiques: 3.26B Optical, Photo, Technical, Medical Apparatus: 2.58B Essential Oils, Perfumes, Cosmetics, Toiletries: 2.57B Electrical, Electronic Equipment: 2.50B Pearls, Precious Stones, Metals, Coins: 1.14B

In conclusion, the USA and France continue to maintain strong trade relations, with France being a significant supplier of a wide range of products to the USA. The dynamics of their trade are constantly evolving, influenced by market trends, technological advancements, and global economic factors.