As the economic recovery took hold in 2010, especially for manufacturers, Wisconsin’s exports soared.
The state Department of Commerce reported that the state’s exports increased 18.28 percent to $19.78 in 2010.
Wisconsin now ranks as the 18th largest exporting state, up from its 21st largest exporting state rank in 2006.
“I salute Wisconsin companies for aggressively seeking new markets around the globe,” Gov. Scott Walker said. “As governor, I’m committed to doing all I can to support a climate that encourages success for our exporters.”
Exports to Canada, Wisconsin’s largest international market, grew by 24.87 percent to $6.04 billion.
Mexico remains Wisconsin’s second largest export market. Exports from the state to Mexico grew 26.76 percent to $2 billion in 2010.
China, the state’s third largest export market, had a 21.45 percent increase to $1.33 billion.
Germany took fourth place with a 16.28 percent increase to $745.3 million.
Japan ranked fifth with a 6.73 percent increase to $731.4 million.
Industrial machinery, including computer equipment, continues to be Wisconsin’s top manufacturing export commodity, growing by 13.34 percent to $6.3 billion.
Electrical machinery had a 0.17 percent increase to $2.3 billion.
Medical and scientific instruments had a 18.47 percent increase to $2.2 billion.
Transportation equipment had a 1.33 percent increase to $1.1 billion.
Paper and paperboard had a 32.8 percent increase to $833.8 million.
The state’s agricultural exports increased by 36.39 percent to $2.41 billion in 2010, a record high.
