Arizona exports soar to record $28.79 billion, defy national decline

In contrast to national trends, Arizona’s exports increased to a record-breaking $28.79 billion last year.

“A testament to the strength and diversity of the Arizona economy, skilled workforce, and the global-mindedness of Arizona companies, Arizona exports in 2023 were at an all-time high of over $28 billion,” Hobbs announced during her International State of the State address. “It’s clear that Arizona is making its mark on the international stage and furthering its leadership as the epicenter of American manufacturing.”

While the rest of the country saw exports decrease by 2.2%, Arizona’s increased by 5.5% in comparison to 2022. Top export categories include:

• Metal ores with $2.3 billion, ranking 1st in the nation
• Semiconductors and other electronic components with $4.1 billion, ranking 4th in the nation
• Electrical equipment and components with $1.2 billion, ranking 7th in the nation
• Aerospace parts and products with $6 billion, ranking 8th in the nation

Last year, Arizona's top export countries included Canada, the Netherlands, China, the United Kingdom, and Mexico at the top taking in $8 billion of exports from the state. In 2018, the state’s Commerce Authority set a goal to increase exports by 25 percent over five years. They say they met and exceeded that goal.

“Arizona’s consistent export growth is a reflection of our state’s strong and growing base of manufacturers, especially small and mid-sized businesses,” Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, said in a press release. “With high-tech manufacturing facilities going up across our state, including battery, semiconductors, automotive, aerospace, and more, we expect exports to continue to climb considerably.”