Arizona Exports to the World Grow in 2008

The Arizona Commerce Department says there are some bright spots in Arizona’s economy. Foreign countries continued to show their desire to purchase Arizona-made products last year. Exports from Arizona to the rest of the world grew by more than half a billion dollars. Electrical machinery was the most in demand, accounting for $7.2 billion in exports. Other products that showed significant demand increases include optics and medical instruments, and vehicles. Mexico is Arizona’s largest trading partner, with $5.9 billion in goods purchased last year. The Commerce Department says Arizona’s exports have grown by more than $1.4 billion since 2006.