Friday, February 15, 2008
Governor Announces 2007 Iowa Exports Soar Over $9 Billion
State's Aggressive Marketing Helps Iowa Outpace the Nation in Export Growth
(Des Moines) For the first time in the state's history, Iowa companies exported over $9 billion in manufactured and value-added goods last year, soaring from $8.4 billion in 2006 to $9.6 billion in 2007. Iowa's 2007 exports increased 14.32 percent, outpacing the national average of 12.11 percent.
"This is another example of Iowa's strong economy outpacing the nation," said Governor Chet Culver. "2007 was a record-breaking year for Iowa companies participating in our global economy. With support from the state, Iowa businesses are entering into new international partnerships and finding success."
"Iowa's growth in exports has been supported by a weak U.S. dollar and powered by aggressive marketing efforts by the state and Iowa businesses," said Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) Director Mike Tramontina. "Iowa's exports surpassed the national average, maintaining the state's strong economy while boosting economic growth."
During 2007, IDED led trade missions to Mexico, Japan, Thailand, Korea, China and South Africa to help Iowa businesses market their products and services, conduct in-country research and find end-users of their goods.
This week, Lt. Governor Patty Judge and IDED staff are leading an Iowa delegation on a trade mission to Japan. Between now and June 2008, IDED will lead trade missions to the Philippines, Taiwan, Brazil, Mexico, central Europe and China. Iowa businesses in all industries are welcome to join Iowa's delegation on these business development trade missions.
In 2007, Iowa's top export trading partners were Canada, Mexico, Japan, Germany and China. Iowa's top export
industries were:
- Machinery (such as dozers and harvest cleaner machines)
- Vehicles (such as tractors, compressors, air conditioners, motors and engines)
- Electrical Machinery (such as radar navigation, sound equipment and insulated wires)
For more information on Iowa exports, visit Iowa's International Office Web site: http://www.iowalifechanging.com/business/export_assistance.html.