Minn. exports notch another quarter of growth

Minnesota exports have posted increases for nine straight quarters.

The state's export of agricultural, mining and manufactured products reached $5.1 billion in the final three months of last year compared to the same period of 2011.

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development says exports were up six-tenths of a percent from the record fourth quarter of the prior year. Manufactured exports led the way, totaling $4.6 billion.

"The growth has been slowing a little a bit," said Ed Dieter, deputy director of DEED's trade office. "But it was another good quarter. When you look at the fact that more than 20 other states saw their exports decline, the fact that Minnesota was able to still grow, I think, is good news."

Machinery was the top category, followed by optical and medical products, electrical machinery and vehicles.

"It's a testimony to the diversity of the Minnesota economy," Dieter said. "We're not tied to one particular industry segment. So, we're able to better withstand volatile global economic times."

Minnesota's top customers were Canada, China and Mexico. Exports to North American destinations accounted for nearly 40 percent of total sales.