NC sets export record

Exports of goods increased 7 percent from 2013, more than doubling the national average growth of 2.8 percent, officials said.

The state ranked 15th nationally in both overall exports and rate of growth.

“North Carolina’s continued export growth shows the international demand for the quality products made in our state,” Gov. Pat McCrory said in a statement. “The global economy offers increasing export opportunities, and we’re ready to make the link in services and assistance North Carolina companies need to grow and create jobs here at home."

Canada represents North Carolina’s largest export partner, accounting for 22 percent of the state’s sales, followed by Mexico at 10 percent and China at 9 percent.

Chemicals, machinery, transportation equipment, computer and electrical products and textiles are among the state's leading exports.

“It’s great to see computers, machinery and textiles made in North Carolina sold around the world," Commerce Secretary John Skvarla said in a statement.

John Loyack, vice president of global business services for the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, the nonprofit created to handle much of the activities previously done by the Commerce Department, said North Carolina exports have increased by about 35 percent over the past decade.