Exports grow Kentucky’s economy. Selling to other countries helps companies ride
out seasonal and regional fluctuations in sales, extend the life cycle of their
products, develop and adapt new products and diversify their dependence on sectors
and clients.
Kentucky ranks 11th in the U.S. for exports on a per capita basis. That’s an impressive distinction
considering that Kentucky is not a coastal or a border state. While Kentucky is home to a number of
large exporters, most of the state’s exporters are small and medium-sized businesses, selling products
and services to nations around the globe.
Snapshot of Kentucky’s Exports
- Kentucky exports totaled $19.3 billion in 2010.
- Kentucky ranks 19th in the nation in total exports.
- Kentucky’s total exports have increased by 101% from 2000 to 2010.
- Kentucky’s 2010 exports added approximately $4.7 billion to the Commonwealth’s direct state gross domestic product and directly created 47,000 jobs.
- Manufactured goods accounted for over 96% of all Kentucky exports in 2010.
- Transportation equipment, chemicals, machinery, and computer and electronic products accounted for 72.2 % of Kentucky’s 2010 exports.
- Canada, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Japan, German, Brazil, and the Netherlands are Kentucky’s top export markets.
Source: U.S. Department of Commerce
Other Resources
Presentation Powerpoints