Idaho ag exports double over six years
Idaho has doubled its agricultural exports since 2007, growing to nearly $2.6 billion in 2013
Idaho’s agricultural exports — led by wheat and followed by dairy — are soaring, growing to $2.59 billion in 2013, according to state export data released by USDA Economic Research Service on Jan. 30.
The state’s ag exports in 2013 were double its 2007 exports, which totaled nearly $1.32 billion.
Global economic growth and an expanding middle class, particularly in Asia, are driving the increase in Idaho’s exports, said Laura Johnson, market development bureau chief at Idaho State Department of Agriculture.
China, for example has 300 million middle-class consumers demanding higher-value products, greater variety and more convenience, she said.