China versus India: How two Asian giants fare in global exports

China and India sit at the centre of Asia’s economic story, but have different profiles in what they sell to the world.

China’s export engine still runs hot

China remains the world’s largest exporter of goods, shipping an astonishing over $3.5 trillion in products globally during 2024, driven by electronics, machinery, and a vast manufacturing base.

In line with that broader picture, China’s top export categories in 2024 included:

• Smartphones — $215 billion
• Computers — $161 billion
• Integrated circuits — $160 billion
• Cars — $90 billion
• Batteries — $67 billion
• Auto parts — $57 billion
• Semiconductors — $48 billion
• Electric power units — $46 billion
• Flat panel displays — $45 billion
• Petroleum products — $42 billion

This mix shows how deeply China has integrated into global supply chains for tech and transport goods, especially mobile devices and computer components.

China’s export strength isn’t just about scale; it’s also about global reach. The United States, Hong Kong and Vietnam are among China’s biggest trading partners, and electronics remain a dominant part of the export mix.

India’s export basket: Energy and value-added goods

India’s export picture is narrower in scale but diversified in profile. In 2024, India shipped hundreds of billions of dollars’ worth of goods worldwide, with a growing emphasis on energy, pharmaceuticals, electronics and gems.

The top export categories for India in 2024 included:

• Petroleum products — $70 billion
• Smartphones — $22 billion
• Pharmaceuticals — $21 billion
• Diamonds — $14 billion
• Jewellery — $12 billion
• Rice — $12 billion
• Auto parts — $7.5 billion
• Cars — $7 billion
• Aircraft — $6 billion
• Chemicals — $5.4 billion

Refined petroleum products, including petrol, diesel and other fuels, have taken on greater importance in India’s export economy, making the country one of the top global suppliers of processed fuels.

India’s pharmaceutical sector continues its ascent, building on its reputation as the “pharmacy of the world” thanks to strong global demand for generic medicines and active ingredients