“South Carolina is leading the nation with exports related to the automotive sector,” S.C. State Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome said in a statement. “Our 52-foot harbor-deepening project in Charleston will facilitate an even greater share of global trade in the years to come, as ships become larger, and manufacturing grows more robustly within the Southeast region.”
For the fourth straight year, South Carolina led the nation with nearly 30% of the total tire export market, records show.
“South Carolina’s exports continue to grow because we have built a reputation around the world as a great place to do business,” Gov. Nikki Haley said in the state Department of Commerce statement.
With more than $4.23 billion in export sales, China remained South Carolina’s top export partner, ahead of Germany, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Algeria, Australia, Japan, Belgium and South Korea.
“Much of the exporting success that South Carolina is experiencing can be attributed to the state’s thriving manufacturing industry,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.
South Carolina’s 13.1% increase ranks first among states that export more than $6 billion in goods. Overall, Hawaii, North Dakota, New Mexico, Wyoming and Alaska boasted larger percentage increases, though South Carolina topped the Southeast for export growth.
With $1.7 billion in total export sales, gas turbines finished behind completed passenger motor vehicles as the state’s No. 2 export commodity, followed by tires and aircraft.
The state ranked No. 1 in exports of synthetic staple fibers, ball or roller bearings and parts, and lawn mowers, the statement said, citing U.S. Department of Commerce records.
