Missouri exports rose 24 percent over 2003 totals

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Missouri businesses exported about $9 billion worth of products to other countries last year, a 24 percent increase that ranked among the best nationally, according to the state Department of Economic Development.

Exports of minerals and ores showed particularly strong growth, up $40 million -- or 182 percent -- over 2003, the department said. Exports of agricultural products rose by $93 million, or 87 percent.

Increases of 30 percent or more also were recorded in textiles and fabrics, transportation equipment and chemicals, the department said.

Canada and Mexico bought more than half of Missouri's exports. Other top five recipients included Japan, China and the United Kingdom.

Missouri's 24 percent growth rate ranked seven nationally. Montana led the way at 56 percent.

The export data was compiled from the Massachusetts-based World Institute for Strategic Economic Research.