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Minnesota exports set a $4.8 billion record for first quarter

Although the state government's operations might be temporarily reduced to a simmer, it seems that Minnesota's exports are at full boil.

According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the state's exports of manufactured, agricultural and mining products grew 13 percent in the first quarter, compared to the same period a year ago. Overall, state exports were a record $4.8 billion for the quarter.

The most dominant export category proved to be manufactured products, bringing in $4.4 billion of total sales, which is a 12 percent increase over last year.

"Minnesota exports continue to be strong, generating more business for companies and contributing to job growth statewide," said DEED Commissioner Mark Phillips in a press release announcing the news. He added that exports to nine of the state's top 10 markets expanded from a year ago, and sales for most of Minnesota's products and commodities grew as well.

Canada remains Minnesota's largest customer, accounting for $1.3 billion in exports in the quarter, up 16 percent from a year ago. Other top markets include China, Japan, Mexico, Germany, and South Korea. Growth in Asia was particularly significant, with exports to China increasing by 35 percent.

Despite the record export growth, the Minnesota Trade Office believes that many small- to mid-sized businesses could be doing even more to bring their products and services to non-Minnesota customers. In a statement, the Trade Office's Executive Director, Katie Clark, noted that Minnesota must focus on selling its products to the global marketplace.

Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
Writer: Elizabeth Millard
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