In 2023, the global car export market hit a huge $958.7 billion, a 25.1% jump from 20191. This industry now makes up 4.1% of all international trade, a rise from 3.2% the year before1. The top five countries leading this market are Germany, Japan, China, South Korea, and the United States. Together, they sell over half (51.9%) of all cars worldwide1.
| Rank | Country | Flag | Exports (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Germany | 🇩🇪 | 157,320,031,013 |
| 2 | Japan | 🇯🇵 | 86,572,809,833 |
| 3 | United States | 🇺🇸 | 57,850,860,671 |
| 4 | South Korea | 🇰🇷 | 51,680,333,554 |
| 5 | Mexico | 🇲🇽 | 46,924,134,567 |
| 6 | China | 🇨🇳 | 44,687,898,774 |
| 7 | Spain | 🇪🇸 | 32,901,492,164 |
| 8 | Canada | 🇨🇦 | 29,445,702,390 |
| 9 | United Kingdom | 🇬🇧 | 29,380,187,071 |
| 10 | Slovakia | 🇸🇰 | 26,185,404,764 |
| 11 | Czechia | 🇨🇿 | 25,205,725,408 |
| 12 | Belgium | 🇧🇪 | 22,889,623,865 |
| 13 | France | 🇫🇷 | 20,857,589,391 |
| 14 | Italy | 🇮🇹 | 16,260,640,771 |
| 15 | Hungary | 🇭🇺 | 12,174,124,421 |
| 16 | Sweden | 🇸🇪 | 12,063,296,114 |
| 17 | Thailand | 🇹🇭 | 11,058,860,449 |
| 18 | Turkey | 🇹🇷 | 9,350,935,069 |
| 19 | U. Arab Emirates | 🇦🇪 | 8,693,005,970 |
| 20 | Austria | 🇦🇹 | 7,938,281,147 |
Key Takeaways
- The global car export market reached a staggering $958.7 billion in 2023, a 25.1% increase from 2019.
- Cars now represent 4.1% of overall international trade, up from 3.2% in 2022.
- The top 5 car exporters – Germany, Japan, China, South Korea, and the United States – account for 51.9% of global car sales.
- European countries led in car exports, capturing 50.6% of the international market, followed by Asia at 31% and North America at 16.5%.
- The 15 countries with the highest car export values shipped 87.5% of globally exported vehicles.
Overview of Global Vehicle Exports
Car and Car Parts Exports (2022)
Source: Data from provided image (2022)
The global car industry has seen a big comeback, with car exports hitting $958.7 billion in 2023. This is a 25.1% jump from 2019’s $766.3 billion2. Year-over-year, car exports jumped 21.5% from $789.1 billion in 2022, showing the automotive sector’s key role in global trade2. Cars became the 4th biggest exported item in 2023, making up 4.1% of all international trade2.
Value and Growth of International Car Sales
The global car market is expected to hit $2.58 trillion by 2023 and $3.81 trillion by 2028, growing at an 8% annual rate3. This growth is fueled by the increasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs). EV sales are set to rise by 21% to 16.7 million units in 2024, with most being pure electric cars3. EVs will make up about 20% of all car sales in 2024, up from 17% in 20233.
Top Exporting Continents and Countries
In 2023, European countries led in car exports, selling $485.2 billion worth of vehicles, or 50.6% of the total2. Asia came next at 31%, and North America made up 16.5% of global car exports2. Germany was the top car exporter, with $157.32 billion in 2022 exports3. Japan was close behind, exporting $86.57 billion in cars that year3.
| Top Exporting Continents | Percentage of Global Car Exports |
|---|---|
| Europe | 50.6% |
| Asia | 31% |
| North America | 16.5% |
China has made a big impact as a car exporter, surpassing Japan and South Korea in 2023 and 2024 to lead the world in car exports. In 2022, China exported $44.68 billion worth of cars3. China is also a leader in making lithium-ion batteries and other key EV components2.
Germany: The World’s Biggest Car Exporter
Germany is the top car exporter worldwide4. In 2021, it sent out goods worth 1,375.5 billion euros, leading the European Union4. Its cars alone were worth $135 billion, showing its strong position globally4.
Export Value and Market Share
Germany’s car exports are impressive4. In 2021, it shipped $135 billion worth of cars, taking 18.5% of the global market4. The main buyers were China ($19.5 billion), the United States ($13.1 billion), the United Kingdom ($11.2 billion), France ($9.21 billion), and Italy ($8.02 billion)4.
Leading German Automakers
Germany’s car industry is led by famous brands4. Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Porsche are known for their quality4. These companies employ about 775,000 people and support many related sectors4. Volkswagen is the biggest exporter, making around 8.7 million vehicles in 20224.
Germany’s lead in car exports shows its engineering skill, tech innovation, and brand strength4. With a focus on quality, efficiency, and sustainability, it will likely stay the top car exporter4.
“Germany’s automotive industry is the backbone of its economy, driving innovation, employment, and global trade.”
Japan: A Formidable Force in Car Exports
Japan is a giant in the car export world, ranking as the second-largest exporter in 20235. Big names like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan have been key to this success. They sent out $110.9 billion worth of cars, making up 11.6% of all car exports worldwide5.
In 2023, Japan’s car trade balance was a strong $98.4 billion, a 28.5% increase from before5. This shows Japan’s strong position in the global car market. Its car makers are known for their skill and technology5.
Japanese car exports show they lead the world in the car trade5. These numbers prove Japan is a key player in the car export market. Its exports are crucial to its economy5.
Even though China has taken the top spot in auto exports, Japan still stands strong6. It exported 4.42 million cars in 2023, keeping it among the top car exporters5.
Online platforms like Trade Car View and Japanese Car Trade highlight Japan’s car export strength7. They list 78,094 and 33,141 used cars, respectively, with many exporters using them7.
China: Rapidly Growing Car Exporter
China has become a big player in the global car market, quickly moving up and beating out old leaders. In 2023, it sent out 4.91 million cars, a huge jump of 57.9% from the year before, making it the third-biggest car exporter8. This big increase in car exports comes from China’s strong manufacturing, new tech, and smart market moves.
Breakdown of Vehicle Types Exported
China exports a wide range of cars, with most being traditional gasoline cars8. But, it’s also sending out more electric cars, with 1.203 million in 2023, a big jump from the year before8. This shows China’s push for cleaner cars and its leading role in making electric vehicles.
Major Destinations for Chinese Cars
Chinese cars are in demand all over the world, with some countries becoming big buyers. Russia is a top market, with Chinese cars now making up 37% of the market in 20228. Mexico is another big buyer, getting 415,100 cars from China in 2023, a 62% increase8. Belgium and the UK are also important markets for Chinese cars.
China’s rise in the car export world shows its strong manufacturing, tech, and smart market moves. With more investment in electric cars and reaching out globally, China is set to become a top car exporter9.
Other Prominent Car Exporting Nations
Germany and Japan lead the world in car exports, but others are catching up. South Korea, the United States, and Mexico are now big players too. They add to the global car market’s diversity and growth10.
South Korea
South Korea is a big name in car exports, sending out $68.3 billion worth of vehicles in 2023. This makes up 7.1% of the market10. The country’s car exports are strong, with a trade surplus of $53.8 billion10.
United States
The United States is also a big player in car exports, sending $63 billion worth of cars in 2023. This is 6.6% of the total market10. But, the U.S. has a trade deficit of $147.3 billion in cars, showing it relies on imports10.
Mexico
Mexico is another key player in the car export market, sending $57.3 billion worth of vehicles in 2023. This is 6% of the total market10. Mexico has a trade surplus of $39.7 billion in cars, showing its strong export focus10.
These countries, along with Germany and Japan, make the global car export market diverse and lively. Each has its own strengths and impacts the automotive world10.
| Country | Export Value (Billion $) | Market Share (%) | Trade Balance (Billion $) |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Korea | $68.3 | 7.1% | $53.8 |
| United States | $63.0 | 6.6% | -$147.3 |
| Mexico | $57.3 | 6.0% | $39.7 |
“The global automotive industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, with countries like South Korea, the United States, and Mexico playing pivotal roles in shaping the international car export market.”
The car export scene is always changing. The efforts of these countries will greatly influence the future of the automotive industry10.
largest car exporters in the world
Top Exporters by Vehicle Category
The world’s leading car exporters excel in various vehicle categories. They show off their manufacturing skills and reach across the globe11. In 2023, Japan led with 5.97 million vehicles exported, while China followed with 5.22 million11. For passenger cars, China outshone Japan with 4.14 million exports in 202311.
| Vehicle Category | Top 5 Exporters |
|---|---|
| Tractors | 1. Germany, 2. Mexico, 3. Netherlands, 4. United States, 5. China |
| Motor vehicles for the transport of 10 or more persons | 1. China, 2. Turkey, 3. Japan, 4. Poland, 5. Czech Republic |
| Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of 10 or fewer persons | 1. Germany, 2. Japan, 3. China, 4. South Korea, 5. United States |
| Motor vehicles for the transport of goods | 1. Mexico, 2. United States, 3. Germany, 4. China, 5. France |
| Special purpose motor vehicles | 1. Germany, 2. China, 3. United States, 4. Italy, 5. Thailand |
11 In 2023, over 70% of China’s car exports were gasoline-powered vehicles11. That year, new energy vehicles made up 40% of new car sales in China11. BYD, a Chinese electric car brand, beat Tesla in making the most vehicles in 202311.
Trade Balances: Surpluses and Deficits
The global car trade shows a big difference between countries with high export surpluses and those with large deficits12. Germany leads as the top car exporter, with a surplus of €72.3 billion in 2022, making up almost 60% of the EU’s car exports12. Japan and South Korea also stand out, with surpluses of $98.4 billion and $53.8 billion, respectively12. Mexico and China complete the list, with surpluses of $39.7 billion and $31.7 billion, respectively12.
Countries with Highest Surpluses
- Germany ($99.1 billion)12
- Japan ($98.4 billion)12
- South Korea ($53.8 billion)12
- Mexico ($39.7 billion)12
- China ($31.7 billion)12
Countries with Largest Deficits
On the other side, some big economies faced big car trade deficits12. The United States had the biggest deficit, with a negative net export of $147.3 billion. Australia, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy also had significant deficits12.
- United States (-$147.3 billion)12
- Australia (-$24 billion)12
- France (-$21.7 billion)12
- United Kingdom (-$19.6 billion)12
- Italy (-$15.9 billion)12
These trade imbalances show the complex nature of the global automotive industry. Some countries are major exporters, while others import a lot to meet their needs12. Knowing these trade patterns is key for policymakers, analysts, and businesses in the changing automotive market12.
Emerging Trends and Dynamics
The global car exports market is seeing a big push for new technologies. This is thanks to changing what people want and new ideas from the industry. A big trend is the rise of electric vehicle exports, showing a move towards cleaner transport13. Dubai is now sending more electric vehicles abroad, showing the industry’s aim for a cleaner future13.
Electric vehicles are not the only new thing. The industry is also looking at autonomous driving capabilities and connected vehicle technologies13. These new techs are making driving safer and more convenient for everyone13.
People now want cars that are more their own, so there’s a big push for customization and personalization options13. Digital showrooms and virtual reality are becoming popular ways for car exporters to show off their cars worldwide, changing how we buy cars13.
Competitive Landscape and Trade Tensions
The competitive landscape in the car exports market is getting more exciting, with new players and old ones changing with the times14. Chinese electric car makers like BYD are challenging big names, causing trade issues and rules14.
The European Union is looking into Chinese electric car subsidies, seeing them as unfair competition14. This could lead to trade fights, especially with Chinese cars going to Mexico14.
The car industry is facing supply chain problems, with parts suppliers facing money issues and delays14. Car makers are having to change how they manage their supply chains, with a 22% drop in parts from other countries in two years14.
Even with these problems, the industry is strong. Global car sales are expected to hit 69 million in 2024, with more electric cars in places like China and India15. The industry is also going green, thanks to what customers want and laws15.
Conclusion
Germany, Japan, China, South Korea, and the United States lead the car export market in 202311. They use their strong manufacturing, tech, and strategic moves to grab a big part of the $958.7 billion car export market16.
China has quickly become a big name in car exports, surpassing Japan11. It’s not just in total car exports but also in passenger cars, with a big jump in electric cars11. Chinese car makers are set to take over the Chinese market, which could mean less European car sales there11.
But, things are changing fast, with China leading in electric car exports and trade tensions rising16. As we move towards greener transport, how these top exporters adjust and innovate will shape the car trade’s future16.
FAQ
What are the top 10 countries by exports of vehicles in 2023?
The top 10 countries for vehicle exports in 2023 were Germany, China, Japan, Mexico, and the United States. Spain, Canada, Belgium, and France also made the list. South Korea rounded out the top 10.
What was the total value of worldwide car exports in 2023?
In 2023, the world exported cars worth 8.7 billion. This was a 25.1% increase from 2019. The value jumped another 21.5% from 2022.
Which continent had the highest dollar value of car exports in 2023?
Europe led in car exports in 2023, with a value of 5.2 billion. Asia followed with 31%, and North America with 16.5%.
What was Germany’s position as a car exporter in 2023?
Germany was the top car exporter in 2023, with 7.2 billion in exports. This made up 18.5% of global sales. Its trade surplus for cars was .1 billion, up 13.3% from 2022.
What was Japan’s position as a car exporter in 2023?
Japan was the second-biggest car exporter in 2023, with 0.9 billion in sales. It accounted for 11.6% of global exports. Japan’s car trade surplus was .4 billion, a 28.5% increase from 2022.
What was China’s position as a car exporter in 2023?
China was the third-largest car exporter in 2023, with .7 billion in sales. It had an 8.1% market share. China’s car trade surplus was .7 billion, a 518.1% drop from the previous year.
Which other countries were prominent car exporters in 2023?
South Korea was another major exporter, with .3 billion in sales and a 7.1% market share. The U.S. exported billion worth of cars but had a deficit. Mexico exported .3 billion and had a surplus.
What were the top exporting countries for different vehicle categories in 2023?
The top exporters for different vehicle types in 2023 were: Tractors – Germany, Mexico, Netherlands, United States, China. For vehicles for 10 or more people, the leaders were China, Turkey, Japan, Poland, and the Czech Republic. For cars for fewer than 10 people, the top exporters were Germany, Japan, China, South Korea, and the United States. For goods transport vehicles, the leaders were Mexico, the United States, Germany, China, and France. Special purpose motor vehicles were exported mainly by Germany, China, the United States, Italy, and Thailand.
Which countries had the highest positive and negative net exports (trade balances) for cars in 2023?
The countries with the biggest surpluses in car exports in 2023 were Germany, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, and China. The countries with the largest deficits were the United States, Australia, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy.
What emerging trends and dynamics are shaping the global car export industry?
China is leading in electric vehicle sales, with 40% of new car sales being electric. This is much higher than the U.S.’s 7%. Chinese electric car makers like BYD are growing globally, challenging international brands. This has led the European Union to investigate Chinese electric vehicle subsidies, seen as unfair. Experts believe this could start trade wars, especially with Mexico.
Source Links
- Car Exports by Country 2023 – https://www.worldstopexports.com/car-exports-country/
- China Overtakes Japan As The World’s Biggest Exporter Of Passenger Cars – https://www.forbes.com/sites/michaelharley/2023/05/22/china-overtakes-japan-as-the-worlds-biggest-exporter-of-passenger-cars/
- Global Car Export Market Outlook in 2022 – https://www.tendata.com/blogs/insight/5764.html
- Article | Germany Exports | Inspexion – https://inspexion.com/blog/article-germany-exports
- China Steps on the Gas to Become Top Auto Exporter in 2023 – https://finance.yahoo.com/news/china-steps-gas-become-top-131100517.html
- China surpasses Japan to be world’s largest auto exporter in 2023, showcasing economic momentum – https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202401/1306439.shtml
- Top 5 Used Car Exporting Platforms In Japan – https://carfromjapan.com/article/industry-knowledge/top-5-used-car-exporting-platforms-japan/
- Why Has China’s Automobile Exports Increased Significantly? – Analysis – https://www.eurasiareview.com/24032024-why-has-chinas-automobile-exports-increased-significantly-analysis/
- China’s car exports pose a key question to policymakers: Compete or protect? – https://www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/china-s-car-exports-pose-key-question-policymakers-compete-or-protect
- 15 Countries with Most Car Exports in the World – https://finance.yahoo.com/news/15-countries-most-car-exports-203723444.html
- China comes just shy of Japan as the world’s largest car exporter – https://www.cnbc.com/2024/01/31/china-comes-just-shy-of-japan-as-the-worlds-largest-car-exporter.html
- International trade in cars – Statistics Explained – https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=International_trade_in_cars
- The Future of Dubai Car Exports: Trends and Innovations Shaping the Industry – https://www.alkadycars.com/the-future-of-dubai-car-exports-trends-and-innovations-shaping-the-industry/
- Automotive Industry Trends 2024 Outlook | Year-In-Review: 2023 – https://www.cloudtheory.ai/automotive-industry-trends
- Top 10 Global Automotive Industry Trends in 2024 – https://www.spyne.ai/blogs/automotive-industry-trends
- China is on course to overtake Japan and become the world’s No.1 car exporter – https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/15/china-can-become-worlds-number-1-car-exporter-by-2023-moodys.html