Commerce secretary lauds record exports in 2006

U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez issued a statement Feb. 13 in New Delhi, India, praising American companies and workers for making 2006 a record year in exports.

"In 2006 American workers and businesses had a banner export year with an all time record high of over $1.4 trillion in exports of goods and services. For the first time in nearly a decade, the growth rate of exports outpaced the growth rate of imports.

"Our booming export numbers show the competitiveness of American workers and companies. Our companies send more U.S. products to more international markets than ever. Here in India, for example, we have seen American exports growing rapidly, up 26 percent last year with growth in a range of industries from medical devices to energy. Our nation's prosperity is dependent on engaging and winning the international markets.

"Today's numbers show significant export growth to almost all of America's key trading partners, with American exports rising to 29 out of 30 of our largest trading partners, including export growth of more than 20 percent to countries diverse as Germany (21 percent), Brazil (25 percent), China (32 percent), and Chile (30 percent). "