Article: International Trade is a Bright Spot for Florida

15-Aug-2011 Trends and challenges at Florida's airports, seaports, and free trade zones.

Florida Trend/FloridaTrend.com – August 15, 2011

A Bright Spot—With Challenges

The recession ended early for international trade, and the sector continues to perform well even as much of Florida's economy continues a slow slog out of the recession. In 2010, Florida-origin exports grew to an all-time high of $55.2 billion. Trade in goods and services plus direct foreign investment now accounts for 16% of Florida's economy and supports one in five jobs.

Foreign trade isn't just a sandbox for big firms. Florida's small and midsized businesses account for more than half of the export trade, finding markets for their products abroad even as the domestic economy lags.

For all the good news, the state will have to work hard to keep its edge. Following are snapshots of the major trends and challenges facing the international trade sector moving into the second half of 2011...

Read the complete article here... http://www.floridatrend.com/article.asp?aID=55366

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