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Kentucky World Trade

Companies everywhere are finding that world trade is becoming a necessity for continued growth and increased profits. Kentucky's companies are no different-they're quickly becoming global competitors.

Kentucky's exports contribute over $8 billion annually to the state's company. Ranked first nationally in livestock and livestock products exports, about 10% of Kentucky's gross product comes from world trade. Approximately 65,000 jobs in Kentucky exist as a result of the Commonwealth's global presence.

While the larger companies in the state, such as Lexmark, have a global presence, Kentucky has several means of assistance for smaller business who are wishing to take on the world.

The Kentucky World Trade Center (KWTC), a non-profit membership organization, promotes international trade and investment throughout Kentucky and the region. The KWTC provides electronic access to 337 World Trade Centers in 101 countries through its membership in the World Trade Centers Association. The KWTC also helps companies compete in the world market by providing assistance with trade contracts, market research and import-export as well as specialized information about operating in foreign markets.

Assistance is also provided by the International Trade Division within the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. Export counseling, trade show, trade mission and catalogue show assistance, trade leads and information on licensing and customs. The Cabinet also has foreign offices in Brussels, Tokyo and Guadalajara to help serve Kentucky exporters.

Kentucky is poised to increase its presence in the global market.

Kentucky export statistics:

  • Kentucky's exports were $5.8 billion in 1996, 15.8% higher than in 1995.
  • Kentucky is the 25th largest exporter in the U.S.
  • Kentucky exports increased 238.6% from 1987-1996. § Exports are 4.8% of the gross state product.
  • Kentucky's top five exporting sectors in 1996 were:
    • Transportation equipment: $1.1 billion
    • Industrial machinery and computers: $950.5 million
    • Tobacco products: $862.1 million
    • Electric and electronic equipment: $545.8 million
    • Chemical products: $333 million
  • Kentucky's top five export markets in 1996 were:
    • Canada: $1.9 billion
    • Japan: $1.1 billion
    • United Kingdom: $283.9 million
    • Mexico: $280.1 million
    • France: $258.9 million
  • Exports to Mexico increased 47.5% under NAFTA, from 1993-1996.

 

Web Links

Kentucky International Trade Office

 

 

 

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