The total value of Idaho agricultural exports increased 12 percent through the first nine months of 2017 compared to the same period last year, led by a large increase in dairy export value.
According to the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, Gem State ag exports totaled $607 million from January through September. Idaho dairy product exports totaled $136 million through the third quarter, up 48 percent during the same period last year, and dairy accounted for 22 percent of Idaho’s total agricultural export value through September, up from 17 percent in 2016.
Analysts say many of the state’s main farm commodities drew higher prices this year, and above-average farm production last year carried over to 2017 as higher inventories. Economists say a weakening U.S. dollar was also a significant factor in the increase because it makes U.S. products more competitive in the global market.
Idaho exports included in the edible vegetable category increased 28 percent, but oilseed exports were down 16 percent. Canada remained the top destination for Idaho ag exports, as that nation purchased 166 million dollars worth during the first nine months of 2017, up 10 percent.
Idaho ag exports to Mexico declined slightly, but increased 95 percent to South Korea, 28 percent to China, 20 percent to Japan, and 133 percent to Australia.
Most milk produced in the state is turned into cheese, and Idaho cheese exports soared to Australia, South Korea, and China through the third quarter. (Capital Press)
