Governor Says Maine Continues to Excel with International Trade

Press Release

Governor Says Maine Continues to Excel with International Trade

Governor John E. Baldacci today presented awards during the luncheon portion of the 29th Annual Maine International Trade Day. The theme of this year's event was the World Economic Outlook, discussing concerns for the future of the economy in Maine, nationally and globally.

Governor Baldacci said that despite difficult economic times around the world, Maine continues to compete.

"Even in the global recession, Maine exported a record $3 billion last year," Governor Baldacci said. "That represents a 9.5 percent increase over 2007 and a 36 percent increase since 2003. Maine's reputation for quality is known worldwide and it continues to thrive despite this historic economic downturn."

International trade supports an estimated 143,000 jobs in Maine. More than 1,600 companies in Maine are active exporters.

The Governor said that trade missions conducted by the Maine International Trade Center have established connections between Maine businesses and international consumers that have produced solid results.

According to data from the Trade Center, gubernatorial and industry missions have resulted in more than $30 million of export sales in the past six years, including $6 million from last year's mission to Vancouver and Toronto. Maine's exports have increased by 36 percent since 2003.

"I have been impressed with the trade missions, the planning that goes in to them and the connections that are set up so that each and every participant gets face-to-face meetings and helpful information along the way," the Governor said. "As I have traveled with participants, I've learned a lot from them and have been impressed with their innovation and ability to market themselves globally."

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source