Government News
U.S. Exports Break Record
U.S. Commerce Secretary, Carlos M. Gutierrez spoke at a meeting of the National Association of
Counties Legislative Conference (NACo) in Washington, D.C. where he promoted exporting as a major source
of economic growth.
"Trade is an increasingly important part of our economy," said Gutierrez. " It’s a key element of
President Bush’s pro-growth agenda. And, as I’m sure you’re aware, it’s also the subject of some debate
in Washington and throughout the country."
He reported a record-breaking $1.6 trillion in exports of goods and services in 2007. That was
"12.2 percent over the record in 2006, said Gutierrez. "This is more than any country at any time."
Gutierrez also said that trade was the source 26 percent of GDP growth last year and that it is the
second largest contributor to GDP growth after consumer spending.
"In 2006, seven metropolitan areas recorded product export sales of $25 billion or more. Thirty more
posted export sales of between $5 billion and $24 billion. And 116 posted export sales of $1 billion or
more," he said.
Read the
entire speech, or go to www.commerce.gov.
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