Texas is again top exporting state

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Texas has been ranked the top exporting state in 2011 for the 10th year in a row, according to data released by the U.S. Department of Commerce , a sign of Texas’ continued role as a leader in the global marketplace.

“For a full decade now, Texas has been the nation’s epicenter for international trade thanks to the continued strength of our state economy and the opportunities created by our business climate,” Gov. Ricky Perry said on Friday. “We remain committed to the bedrock conservative values of low taxes, reasonable regulations and fair courts that attract and keep employers in Texas, and we will continue to develop the world-class workforce necessary to meet the demands of any 21 ^st century employer.”

Texas’ exports in 2011 totaled more than $249.8 billion, up 20.7 percent from $206.9 billion in 2010, outperforming overall U.S. exports, which grew by 15.8 percent in 2011.

The state’s top export recipients were Mexico, Canada, China, Brazil and the Netherlands, which respectively imported $86.6 billion, $21.9 billion, $10.9 billion, $9.9 billion and $9.0 billion in Texas-manufactured goods.

Texas’ top exporting industries in 2011 were:  

• petroleum and coal products
• chemicals
• computer and electronic products
• non-electrical machinery
• transportation equipment

In 2011, Site Selection Magazine, DCI and Area Development Magazine each ranked Texas as the best business climate. Additionally, Texas won Site Selection Magazine’s 2010 Governor’s Cup for the most new and expanded corporate facilities announced throughout the year.

According to USA Today, Texas has moved past New York as the nation’s second largest economy, and the Wall Street Journal has credited the state’s low taxes and employer-friendly environment with helping make Texas the job creation capital of the nation.

Texas also consistently ranks among the top states for Fortune 500 headquarters.

For more information on 2011 export data, visit https://www.wisertrade.org/naics/ftbegin .