Florida's Growing Export Economy: A Sunshine State Overview
Nicknamed "The Sunshine State," Florida shines not only for its warm climate but also for its thriving export industry. In 2022, the state shipped an impressive $67.5 billion worth of goods globally, marking a substantial 20.6% increase from $56 billion just three years earlier in 2019. Year over year, the value of Floridian exports continued to climb, rising by 21.1% compared to $55.7 billion in 2021. While Florida ranks among America's top 10 exporters by state, it stands behind leaders like Texas, California, New York, and Washington. Nevertheless, the value of Florida's exports constitutes 3.3% of the total U.S. exported products for 2022, showcasing a notable improvement from the previous year's 3.2%.
In the economic landscape, Florida's exported products contribute significantly, representing 6.8% of the state's total economic output or Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2022, which reached an impressive $1 trillion.
Space Exploration and Aerospace Dominance:
Home to the renowned Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida is a pivotal player in the space exploration and satellite launch market. Spacecraft, satellites, and related components manufactured in the state account for a substantial portion of Florida's exports, amounting to 12.2% in 2022, totaling $8.3 billion.
Additionally, Florida boasts a robust aerospace sector with several companies contributing to the production of civilian aircraft and related parts. Notable players include Lockwood Aviation Supply, Inc., based in Sebring, offering aircraft engines, systems, and repair services, and industry giant Honeywell International, manufacturing automation and material handling equipment.
Diversification Beyond Aerospace:
While spacecraft and aviation parts lead the export charts, medical equipment, and pharmaceuticals claim a significant share of Florida's export portfolio. The state is a hub for the life sciences industry, exporting medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology products to various countries. Research institutions and biotech companies actively contribute to the sector's growth.
Beyond these sectors, Florida's diverse exports include:
Agricultural Products: Florida is a major exporter of agricultural goods, particularly citrus products like oranges and grapefruits. The citrus industry, a key player in the state's economy, supports thousands of jobs and contributes billions to Florida's economic output.
According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the citrus industry supports a total of 32,542 full-time and part-time jobs in the state. In 2022, the total value of Florida’s citrus industry was $6.935 billion. This includes $5.334 billion from citrus juice manufacturing, $1.425 billion from citrus fruit production, and $177 million for fresh citrus marketing.
Trade with Latin America: Thanks to its geographical proximity, Florida maintains strong trade ties with Latin America and the Caribbean. The state serves as a crucial gateway for imports and exports, fostering economic relationships with countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia.
Service Exports: Florida extends its influence beyond tangible goods, exporting a range of services such as financial services, consulting, and technology services. The state's diverse economy supports a variety of service-oriented industries.
Port Infrastructure: Major seaports, including the Port of Miami and Port Everglades, play a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of goods. These ports are essential components of Florida's international trade infrastructure, solidifying the state's position as a key trade hub.
Environmental Exports: Recognizing the global demand for environmental solutions, Florida engages in exporting technologies and services related to water management, renewable energy, and sustainable practices. As climate change concerns rise, Florida's expertise in this field becomes increasingly valuable on the international stage.
Inspexion.com covers quotes for inspection from Aerospace parts to Environmental Audits. If you need any export inspected in Florida, request a quote and get a professional inspector to inspect and report.
Find out more here: https://inspexion.com/lp-aerospace-fasteners-and-fittings and here: https://inspexion.com/environmental-audit