February 15, 2012

A record high of US$2.85 billion is Wisconsin's agricultural exports in 2011 which grew 18%, according to the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

The state ranks 16th in the nation for agricultural exports, jumping one place higher from 2010. Wisconsin's top exports include wheat, corn and barley, with its top markets being Canada, Mexico, South Korea, China and Japan.

Mike Powers, division administrator of agricultural development for the department, said one of the leading reasons why Wisconsin exports have increased is because of growing world demand for meat, dairy products and soy. "What we've seen is younger consumer in foreign countries having more disposable income, changing their purchasing habits and demanding food products - which translates into bigger exports," Powers said.

"The other part is seeing a continued increase in ingredients and other products, like genetics and feed grains, as world demand and consumption increase across the globe," he said.

Grain exports in Wisconsin bring in roughly US$380 million, according to Powers.

He said long-standing relationships with countries such as South Korea and Japan have helped the state become known for high-quality food, ingredients and agricultural equipment. "We're optimistic because we think there's going to be more exports each year," Powers said. "Businesses of Wisconsin working through our ports can produce reliable products whether used in processing or animal feed, and that has strengthened our position in international exports." Wisconsin's total export industry increased by 11.4%, according to Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., the successor to the state Commerce Department.