Arizona’s Record-Breaking Export Growth Defies National Trends
In a year when the United States experienced a 2.2% decrease in exports, Arizona managed to achieve unprecedented growth, reaching $28.79 billion in goods exported in 2023. This 5.5% increase, which amounts to $1.5 billion more than the previous year, highlights Arizona’s robust economy and its competitive edge in the global market, as announced by Governor Katie Hobbs in her International State of the State address.
“A testament to the strength and diversity of the Arizona economy, skilled workforce, and the global-mindedness of Arizona companies, Arizona exports in 2023 were at an all-time high of over $28 billion,” stated Governor Hobbs. “It’s clear that Arizona is making its mark on the international stage and furthering its leadership as the epicenter of American manufacturing.”
Arizona distinguishes itself in various export categories, securing a prominent position in several sectors:
- 8th in aerospace parts and products with exports worth $6 billion,
- 7th in electrical equipment and components with $1.2 billion,
- 4th in semiconductor and other electronic components with $4.1 billion,
- 1st in metal ores with $2.3 billion in exports.
The state’s top export destinations in 2023 were noteworthy, including Mexico ($8 billion), Canada ($2.7 billion), the Netherlands ($1.7 billion), China ($1.6 billion), and the United Kingdom ($1.4 billion).
According to Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), the state’s consistent growth in exports is indicative of its burgeoning manufacturing sector. Watson remarked, “Arizona’s consistent export growth is a reflection of our state’s strong and growing base of manufacturers, especially small and mid-sized businesses. With high-tech manufacturing facilities going up across our state, including battery, semiconductors, automotive, aerospace, and more, we can expect exports to continue to climb.”
The ACA had set an ambitious target in 2018 to boost exports by 25% over the next five years, a goal that has not only been met but exceeded. The ACA’s International Trade team plays a key role in enhancing Arizona’s export capabilities by offering practical and accessible export assistance programs to local businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.
Key ACA export assistance programs include:
- The Arizona State Trade Expansion Program (AZSTEP) – This program aids Arizona small businesses in entering or expanding within export markets through various services and tools.
- The ExporTech Program – Aimed at Arizona manufacturers, this program helps develop actionable export plans.
- International Trade Offices – These offices, authorized by the Legislature, offer export assistance in regions such as Europe, Mexico, Israel, and Asia.
Further details about Arizona’s international trade programs can be found HERE.
Media Contact
Alyssa Tufts, Arizona Commerce Authority, [email protected]
About the Arizona Commerce Authority
The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is the state’s foremost economic development organization, committed to enhancing Arizona’s economy. The ACA’s strategy includes attracting out-of-state companies to Arizona, assisting existing businesses in expanding, and fostering the creation of new businesses in targeted industries. More information is available at azcommerce.com and on Twitter @azcommerce.
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