U.S. merchandise exports increased from $202 billion in 2010 to a record $1.48 trillion in 2011, the Commerce Department's International Trade Administration reports. Texas was the biggest gainer among the states, with a $43 billion increase. Total U.S. exports of goods and services also set a record in 2011 -- $2.1 trillion.
Altogether, U.S. merchandise exports increased 16% over 2010, which ITA says puts the United States on track to meet President Obama's National Export Initiative goals of doubling U.S. exports by the end of 2014.
Thirty-six states had double-digit merchandise export growth in 2011, ITA reports. Of those, 23 states exceeded the national average of 16% growth for merchandise exports.
"America has a strong competitive edge in the global marketplace," said Under Secretary of International Trade Francisco Snchez. "Consumers worldwide have a strong affinity for U.S. goods and services, and appreciate American-brand-name values and U.S. companies' reputation for quality, performance and after-the sale service. The most recent figures show that U.S. exports are fueling our economic recovery."
Texas accounted for 21% of the nation's increase in merchandise exports from 2010 to 2011. Together Texas, California, Illinois, Louisiana and New York accounted for one-half of the increase in goods exports from 2010-2011.
Here are the top 10 exporting states:
| State | 2010 | 2011 |
| Texas | 206.9 | 249.8 |
| California | 143.1 | 159.3 |
| New York | 69.6 | 82.8 |
| Florida | 55.3 | 64.7 |
| Washington | 53.3 | 64.6 |
| Illinois | 50.0 | 64.5 |
| Louisiana | 41.3 | 55.1 |
| Michigan | 44.7 | 50.8 |
| Ohio | 41.4 | 46.4 |
| Pennsylvania | 34.9 | 41.0 |
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Steve Minter
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An award-winning editor, Executive Editor Steve Minter covers leadership, global economic and trade issues and energy, tackling subject matter ranging from CEO profiles and leadership theories to economic trends and energy policy. As well, he supervises content development for editorial products including the magazine, IndustryWeek.com, research and information products, and conferences.
Before joining the IW staff, Steve was publisher and editorial director of Penton Media’s EHS Today, where he was instrumental in the development of the Champions of Safety and America’s Safest Companies recognition programs.
Steve received his B.A. in English from Oberlin College. He is married and has two adult children.