Europe and China stand at the centre of global manufacturing exports, but their strengths lie in different sectors. The EU accounts for 49% of global chemical exports, 44% of automotive products and 34% of iron and steel, while China leads textiles and clothing with a 33% share and office and telecom equipment with 24%.

The broader rankings reveal a more diverse manufacturing landscape. The U.S. remains a major exporter across chemicals, electronics and automotive products, while Taiwan, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam and other Asian economies reinforce Asia’s depth across electronics, textiles and industrial supply chains.

Global manufacturing leadership is therefore concentrated around Europe and China, but supported by a much wider network of specialised export economies.