Pew Research: Americans’ Views on Trade with China, Canada, and Mexico

A recent Pew Research Center survey highlights shifting public opinion on U.S. trade relationships with China, Canada, and Mexico amid new tariffs. Key takeaways include:

• China:

  • 46% of Americans say China benefits more from trade with the U.S.

  • Only 10% believe the U.S. gains more.

  • 24% think both nations benefit equally.

  • Negative views of China's impact on the U.S. economy remain strong.

• Canada:

  • 44% see mutual benefits in U.S.-Canada trade.

  • 26% say Canada benefits more.

  • Among Republicans, the share who say Canada benefits more rose from 20% in 2023 to 46% in 2025.

  • Republican views of mutual benefit dropped from 47% to 25% in that time.

• Mexico:

  • 34% view trade with Mexico as equally beneficial.

  • 29% think Mexico gains more from the relationship.

  • Republicans are more likely than Democrats to say Mexico benefits more.

• Trade Figures (2024):

  • U.S. imported $462.5B from China and exported $199.2B—resulting in a $263.3B deficit.

  • Trade deficit with Mexico was $179B.

  • Canada’s deficit was smaller at $35.7B.

  • Overall, U.S. trade deficits are driven mostly by goods—raw materials, consumer products, and food—leading to a $1.2 trillion deficit in goods versus a $295.2B surplus in services.

Despite rising tensions and tariff policies, most Americans remain generally pro-trade. About two-thirds believe expanding trade and business ties with other nations is good for the U.S., even as opinions diverge over which countries benefit most.