Alabama exported $21.7B in autos, other goods during 2017

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) - A state agency says Alabama exported a record $21.7 billion in automobiles, chemicals and other goods last year.

The Tuscaloosa News reports the combined value of Alabama goods and services shipped abroad in 2017 increased more than 6 percent over the previous year. The state Department of Commerce says exports have jumped 50 percent in the past decade.

Transportation equipment makes up Alabama’s top export category, valued at $10.9 billion last year. That’s mostly automobiles built in the state, but also includes auto parts and components for planes and spacecraft.

Chemicals from Alabama accounted for $2.3 billion in 2017 exports, followed by primary metals valued at $1.9 billion.

Alabama exported goods and services to 189 countries last year. Its biggest foreign customer was Canada, which bought $4.14 billion in exports.

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Information from: The Tuscaloosa News, http://www.tuscaloosanews.com