Public Views on Trade Between the U.S. and China, Canada, and Mexico

As the United States continues to navigate its trade relationships with China, Canada, and Mexico, a new survey sheds light on how Americans perceive these crucial partnerships. According to the Pew Research Center survey, the public holds mixed views on whether trade with these top three international trading partners benefits the U.S. or the other countries more. With President Donald Trump’s administration pushing forward with higher tariffs on imports from all three nations, these perceptions are likely to shape the ongoing debate over U.S. trade policy.

U.S.-China Trade: A Relationship Marked by Skepticism

Americans are most skeptical about the trade relationship with China. The survey found that 46% of U.S. adults believe China benefits more from trade with the U.S., while only 10% say the U.S. benefits more. About 25% of Americans view the trade relationship as mutually beneficial, with both countries benefiting equally. This perspective is consistent with the ongoing tensions between the two countries, particularly regarding issues such as tariffs, intellectual property, and trade imbalances.

U.S.-Canada Trade: Shifting Views Among Republicans

The trade relationship between the U.S. and Canada also garners mixed reactions. While 44% of Americans believe both countries benefit equally from their trade relationship, 26% say Canada benefits more than the U.S. The share of Americans who hold this view has increased significantly in recent years, rising from 14% in 2023 to 26% in 2025. Notably, the increase is primarily driven by a shift in Republican views, with 46% of Republicans now believing that Canada benefits more from trade, compared to just 20% in 2023. This change may be linked to shifting political dynamics and the impact of trade policies under the Trump administration.

U.S.-Mexico Trade: Mixed Opinions Persist

Regarding Mexico, Americans are more divided, with 16% saying trade benefits the U.S. more than Mexico, and 29% saying Mexico benefits more. A large portion of the population, 34%, believes both countries benefit equally. Despite these differing opinions, trade with Mexico continues to play a vital role in the U.S. economy, particularly in industries such as agriculture, automotive, and electronics.

U.S. Trade Deficits: The Economic Reality

The economic relationship between the U.S. and these three countries is complex, as the U.S. imports more goods than it exports to all three nations. In 2024, China, Canada, and Mexico accounted for a combined 36.5% of all U.S. imports and 32.1% of U.S. exports, reflecting the significant trade flows between these nations. However, these trade relationships have also resulted in large trade deficits for the U.S., particularly with China and Mexico.

In 2024, the U.S. trade deficit with China reached a staggering $263.3 billion, as the U.S. imported $462.5 billion in goods and services from China while exporting only $199.2 billion. The U.S.-Mexico trade deficit stood at $179.0 billion in the same year, while the U.S.-Canada trade deficit was comparatively smaller at $35.7 billion.

Despite these deficits, U.S. trade with China, Canada, and Mexico remains vital for the overall economy, particularly in the realm of goods imports like raw materials, electronics, and foodstuffs. While the U.S. faces a large deficit in goods, it enjoys a $295.2 billion surplus in services, including industries like finance, technology, and entertainment.

The Changing Landscape of U.S. Trade Policy

With President Trump’s new tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico, the future of these trade relationships remains uncertain. Americans’ shifting views on these trade relationships are likely to influence public support for future trade policies, especially as the effects of higher tariffs become more evident in the economy.

The debate over U.S. trade policy is increasingly partisan, with Republicans showing more support for Trump’s tariffs and the idea of prioritizing domestic industries, while Democrats are more likely to favor a balanced approach to trade and international cooperation.

Conclusion: A Divided Nation on Trade

As the U.S. continues to navigate its trade relationships with China, Canada, and Mexico, the public remains divided on whether these relationships benefit the U.S. or its partners more. While Republicans have become more skeptical about trade with Canada, and opinions on China remain polarized, trade with Mexico is viewed with mixed reactions. The ongoing debates about tariffs, trade deficits, and global competition are likely to continue shaping the future of U.S. trade policy.

Americans’ views on trade are not just about economics—they also reflect broader questions of national identity, political values, and the role of the U.S. in the global economy. As these relationships evolve, the perspectives of U.S. citizens will play a crucial role in determining the direction of future trade policies and international diplomacy.

Author Profile

Syed Tahir Abbas Shah

Syed Tahir Abbas is a Master's student at Southwest University, Chongqing, specializing in international relations and sustainable development. His research focuses on U.S.-China diplomacy, global geopolitics, and the role of education in shaping international policies. Syed has contributed to academic discussions on political dynamics, economic growth, and sustainable energy, aiming to offer fresh insights into global affairs.

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