Ranked: Top 10 U.S. states most exposed to China tariffs

The U.S. and China have just agreed to suspend most tariffs on each other’s goods for 90 days, following months of escalating trade tensions. However, the question remains: which U.S. states and sectors are most exposed to this kind of volatility?

In April, China’s exports to the U.S. plunged 21% – the steepest drop in years – after the Trump administration’s new 145% tariffs took effect. U.S. companies are already warning of empty shelves and higher prices as supply chains are disrupted.

While the 90-day suspension offers temporary relief, the underlying risks for businesses and consumers remain significant as negotiations continue.

This makes our new ranking from Investors Observer especially timely. It shows which U.S. states are most reliant on Chinese imports – and therefore most exposed to these tariffs and volatility.

Key takeaways:

• California tops the list, importing almost $123 billion worth of goods from China in 2024 – almost triple the amount imported by the next state.
• Nevada leads in reliance: 26% of its total imports come from China.
• Tennessee’s Chinese imports represent 22% of its GDP – the highest among all states.
• The least reliant states – Montana, Alaska, Wyoming – show how rural, resource-driven economies are more insulated.