Impact Of Trade

How Trade Brings Prosperity to America's Local Communities

Download the full report (PDF)

A Message from Thomas J. Donohue
President and CEO, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

America boasts the biggest, most productive, and dynamic economy in the world because we've engaged the global trading system. But most Americans don't realize the positive impact of international trade and investment on their everyday lives. They may even have negative views based on scare tactics and misperceptions advanced by opponents of global trading and investment.

In fact, international trade and foreign investment combined exceed one-third the size of the U.S. economy. Trade in products and services and money invested here from overseas grow our economy, create jobs, and increase incomes. U.S. exports directly support an estimated 12 million good-paying U.S. jobs, and imports directly support another 10million jobs plus boost choice, quality, and purchasing power for American consumers. Foreign companies with operations in the United States directly support another 5 million high-paying jobs and millions more indirectly.

Small and midsize businesses are the biggest beneficiaries of foreign trade and investment. In nearly all states, they account for 70% or more of the businesses engaged in global trading. With advances in Internet technology and financial and logistics services, the future for entrepreneurs in the trading arena is bright. The following pages provide detailed official government data on the economic gains and jobs that foreign trade and investment create in each state. As the debate over America's role in the global economy carries on, we should be confident knowing that the facts support us.

We can't allow our economy to derail now by turning inward and shunning trade and investment opportunities. To remain competitive in the 21st century, we must expand our horizons and embrace the global economy like never before. International trade means jobs, prosperity, and revenue in local communities across America from Maine to California to Florida to Washington.

Download the full report (PDF)