Virginia Exports Rise 8 Percent

Exports of goods and services in Virginia are growing and having a large impact on the state's economy.

Virginia exports increased 8 percent in 2010 to $29 billion, ranking it as the 22nd-largest exporting state in the U.S., according to recent data from the Virginia Economic Development Partnership's international trade office.

"The weak dollar is a tremendous boost and a tremendous reason why U.S. exports are gaining ground in other markets," said Paul H. Grossman Jr., director of the partnership's international trade and investment. "As a foreign buyer, they can now buy U.S. products with U.S. quality at anywhere from a 20 to 40 percent discount."

Grossman added that Virginia has received funding for programs to help companies expand exports to emerging nations that have a surging middle class by putting them face-to-face with foreign buyers.

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