Minnesota exports of manufactured, agricultural and mining products grew 12 percent from a year ago to $5.3 billion in the second quarter of 2011, according to figures released Wednesday by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).
Manufacturing dominated three key export categories, accounting for $4.7 billion in sales, up 10 percent from the same quarter one year ago.
Canada, China, Japan and Mexico saw were the state's largest trading partners for the quarter. The news was celebrated by state officials.
"This is great news that shows Minnesota is continuing the momentum that began last year and carried through our record first quarter," said DEED Commissioner Mark Phillips. "Strong exports are contributing to business growth and creating jobs in Minnesota."
By global region, North America accounted for 35 percent of state exports sales, followed by Asia at 34 percent and the European Union at 20 percent.
