Statement from U.S. Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker on International Trade in Goods and Services in August 2013

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker issued the following statement today on the release of the August 2013 U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services data. U.S. exports of goods and services dropped slightly to $189.2 billion, from $189.3 billion in July, with record levels in automotive vehicles, parts, and engines, and services led by travel and tourism. Exports through the first eight months of 2013 totaled $1.5 trillion.

Since President Obama launched the National Export Initiative (NEI) in 2010, an ambitious plan to sell more American goods and services into foreign markets, the United States has seen an increase of 1.3 million export-supported jobs. The NEI is the first Presidential-led, government-wide export promotion strategy. Through the initiative’s focus on improving trade promotion and advocacy, reducing barriers and enforcing trade rules, U.S. exports have continued to grow.

“Today’s data show that exports are on track to set another record this year, and that the auto industry and travel and tourism sector are doing particularly well,” said Secretary Pritzker. “While we have more work to do, U.S. exports continue to drive economic growth and support nearly 10 million American jobs. The U.S. Department of Commerce will keep up efforts to help American businesses increase their exports, reach new markets, and strengthen the U.S. economy.”