Exports of Goods and Annual Percent Change

What is it and why does it matter?

This measure tracks the benefit collected by either the individual or the company that is exporting goods to foreign countries. It based on the zip code where the individual or company is listed, not the origin of the product's journey. The data are not adjusted for inflation. In order to foster a competitive business climate, a region's companies need to sell their goods to overseas markets. Revenue from such sales is often reinvested into that region's economy, creating further opportunities for economic growth.

Latest Southeast Michigan trend:

The region's exports of goods declined by 11% in 2024 and returned to 2022 levels at $42 Billion (but not in inflation-adjusted terms). This pullback may be due to the slowing economic growth the region experienced in 2024. The longer-term trend of declining exports is also concerning, as the region needs to export its manufactured goods to realize growth.