North Carolina’s Export Industry Continues to Grow in 2014

Raleigh, N.C. - Evidence is adding up to show the state’s economy continues to strengthen under Governor Pat McCrory’s economic policies. North Carolina exports increased 2.7 percent in the first half of 2014 compared to the same period in 2013, growing from $14.9 billion to $15.3 billion.
 
“North Carolina products are in greater demand across the world,” said Governor McCrory. “We will continue to work to make it easier for North Carolina companies to market their goods and services overseas. I expect our exports to continue to grow as more international buyers learn about the quality and value of North Carolina products.” 
 
According to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration, North Carolina’s merchandise export sales for the first half of 2014 outpaced the 2013 figures for the same period in many destinations, including South Africa (147.2 percent), Dominican Republic (38.7 percent), Belgium (29.9 percent), Hong Kong (27.6 percent), Saudi Arabia (26.9 percent), Mexico (18.9 percent) and Japan (6.1 percent).  Key merchandise export categories include chemicals, machinery, transportation equipment, computer and electrical products, and textiles.  Other export categories with high growth include electrical equipment, appliances and components, food products and wood products. 
 
“Exports have not only increased for our traditional industries, such as textiles and food, but also for many of our newer industries as well,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker.  “For example, we are seeing increased exports in computers as well as electrical equipment made in North Carolina.” 
 
The N.C. Department of Commerce works with North Carolina companies to enter world markets and develop export opportunities.  Services that international trade experts provide include conducting market research, establishing best market prospects, identifying customers and partners, and other value-added services.  The N.C. Department of Commerce maintains offices around the globe to support export activity and to facilitate direct investment in North Carolina.  The U.S. Export Assistance Center in Charlotte also works with companies to enhance export opportunities.  
 
For more information about the impact of exports in North Carolina, please visit www.trade.gov/mas/ian and the N.C. Department of Commerce at www.nccommerce.com.   
 
Businesses can order the Basic Guide to Exporting at www.export.gov/basicguide.