Trade across North America has taken a significant hit following the U.S. government’s decision to impose hefty tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods—alongside retaliatory tariffs from Canada. With cross-border commerce becoming pricier, some U.S. states feel the impact more than others.
A recent data visualization, originally shared on the Voronoi app, highlights how much each state depends on its northern and southern neighbors for imports. Using data from the U.S. International Trade Administration, the map reveals the percentage of each state’s imports that came from Canada and Mexico in 2024.
Trade Dependence on North American Neighbors
In 2024, Canada and Mexico collectively accounted for 28% of all U.S. goods imports, though certain states rely far more heavily on these trading partners. Leading the list is Montana, where a staggering 93% of imports originate from either Canada or Mexico.
Top 10 U.S. States by Import Dependence on Canada & Mexico (2024)
| State | Share of Imports from Canada & Mexico |
|---|---|
| Montana | 93% |
| Maine | 72% |
| North Dakota | 71% |
| Vermont | 71% |
| Michigan | 69% |
| Wyoming | 57% |
| Oklahoma | 56% |
| Texas | 49% |
| Iowa | 48% |
| West Virginia | 45% |
Why Montana Tops the List
Montana’s trade reliance on Canada is particularly striking, with 92% of its total imports coming from its northern neighbor. The state’s proximity to Alberta and its three oil refineries play a major role, with 76% of Montana’s Canadian imports consisting of oil and gas.
Trade Ties in the South: Texas and Oklahoma
While Montana dominates trade reliance in the north, Texas and Oklahoma emerge as key players in the South. Oklahoma mirrors Montana’s pattern—50% of its imports come from Canada, and 79% of those are oil and gas.
Texas, the second-largest state economy in the U.S., has a different story. The Lone Star State leans more on Mexico, which accounts for 40% of its total imports. In 2024, Texas’ biggest imports from Mexico were motor vehicles and their parts (23%) and computer equipment (22%).
The Bigger Picture
While some states—particularly those bordering Canada and Mexico—have deep trade ties with their neighbors, others are less reliant. However, as tariffs reshape trade dynamics, businesses and consumers alike may feel the ripple effects of shifting import costs.
