Colorado Exports Set Record High

DENVER — Friday, Feb. 8, 2013 — Colorado’s exports of manufactured, agricultural and mineral products increased 11.3 percent in 2012 compared to 2011, growing from $7.3 billion to $8.1 billion.  Colorado’s rate of growth topped the 4.4 percent national average for merchandise export growth for the same period.
“Despite a challenging global economy, exports continue to be a bright spot for Colorado,” said Ken Lund, executive director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT).

“Selling more Colorado-made goods in international markets means more jobs here at home. We congratulate Colorado businesses and entrepreneurs for their continued success in increasing the state’s exports to new record levels.”

Key merchandise export categories for Colorado include computer and electronic products, food and kindred products, machinery, and chemicals.  Among Colorado’s top ten exports, industrial machinery, including computers (+38%), oil and gas (+32%), articles of iron or steel (+23) and meat, including beef, pork and offal (+11) showed significant increases.
Canada retains its position as Colorado’s top export market, reaching $1.9 billion, up 29.5% over 2011. 

Key exports to Canada include industrial machinery (including computers); meat (including beef, pork and offal); optical, photographic and medical or surgical instruments; and oil and gas.  Mexico retains its position as Colorado’s second largest export market with $847 million in exports in 2012, up 12% over 2011. 

Mainland China remained third with $676 million in exports, a 6% increase.  Japan remained fourth with $427 million in exports, followed by Germany, the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea and Switzerland.
OEDIT is responding to the needs of Colorado exporters with targeted programs and services to help sell products and services overseas. Please visit http://www.advancecolorado.com/international-business for more information.