Oregon’s exports to China jump 27 percent

Oregon’s exports rose 1.3 percent in 2013 with solid growth from computer products and machinery, particularly with the state’s largest trade partner, China.

The state’s trade with China grew 27 percent over 2012, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Foreign Trade Division. The increased trade with China was highlighted by 122 percent growth in manufactured machinery exports and 36 percent growth in computer and electronic goods.

Oregon’s trade with Pacific Rim remained paramount with significant exports to Japan and Korea as well as Canada. Oregon exports were valued at $18.6 billion in 2013.

In 2012, manufacturing made up 27.8 percent of Oregon’s GDP, second highest in the nation. Overall, machinery exports grew 20% in 2013, valued at $1.6 billion, reflecting Oregon’s position as one of the leading manufacturing states in the nation.

Exports of computer and electronics grew 4.8 percent, and is by far Oregon’s largest value export at $6.5 billion. Oregon’s food processing industry continued to show strength, with exports of value-added food products growing 4.3 percent in 2013.

“The export of high-quality, high-value Oregon products across the globe continues to drive the state’s economic and employment growth,” said Tim McCabe, director of Business Oregon. “State export assistance grants, regional initiatives, as well as leadership at the federal level continues to spur export growth.”

Oregon export promotion grants, a majority of which are backed by the Small Business Administration, have helped 120 Oregon companies travel overseas to trade shows seeking foreign customers. Those companies are realizing an estimated $28 million in new revenue from only $483,000 in matching grants since 2012.

In addition, the International Trade Administration’s National Export Initiative, begun in 2010, has put a new emphasis on increasing U.S. exports and is paying off with the U.S. selling more goods and services to the 95 percent of consumers who live outside of our borders.

In 2012, U.S. exports hit an all-time record of $2.2 trillion and supported 9.8 million jobs.

The Oregon Business Development Department, Business Oregon, works to create, retain, expand and attract businesses that provide sustainable, living-wage jobs for Oregonians through public-private partnerships, leveraged funding, and support of economic opportunities for Oregon companies and entrepreneurs.