Post

Wisconsin ag exports at record pace

Wisconsin is on pace to have record agricultural exports this year.  The Department of Ag, Trade and Consumer Protection says in the first six months of 2014, we exported $1.9 billion in agricultural products to 128 countries.  That is a 17 percent increase over the first half of 2013.

Growth in dairy exports, including dairy derivatives, increased 30 percent compared to the first half of 2013 to $273 million. Wisconsin ranks first in the nation in the export of bovine genetics, whey, ginseng, processed sweet corn and mink fur skins. Wisconsin ranks second in the export of cheese and processed cranberries.

Canada is our best customer buying $934 million from the Badger State, up 17 percent from a year ago.  Mexico’s purchases are up 36 percent to $160 million.  China bought $157 million, Korea $101 million and Japan $77 million.

Total U.S. agricultural exports were valued at $88 billion, an increase of 12 percent compared to the same period in 2013.  Wisconsin ranks 12^th in ag exports among the 50 states.