Idaho’s computer and electronics goods led the states exports in 2022, generating $900 million dollars. Strong ties to Asian economies are also driving export growth in Idaho, with international trade supporting more than 203,000 jobs in the state.
Job Creation
In Idaho, 203,500 jobs were supported by international trade in 2019, representing 19.0% of all jobs in the state.1,2
In 2020, 1,635 companies exported goods from Idaho of which 86% were small- and medium-sized enterprises. In 2018, 19,300 people were employed by affiliates of companies at least 50% foreign-owned.3,4
Exports and Growth
Idaho exported $3.8 billion in goods to foreign markets in 2021, a 12% increase compared to 2020 driven by continued economic recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy.5
Canada ($1.6 billion)
Taiwan ($511 million)
Singapore ($260 million)
China ($212 million)
Japan ($205 million)
Agricultural exports are important to Idaho's' economy, totaling $2.6 billion in 2020, according to the USDA.6
Since 2014, the U.S. Export-Import Bank has financed $134 million in exports from 24 companies in Idaho.7
Since 1992, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency has helped facilitate $69 million in exports from Idaho companies.9
Education and Research
During 2020, 3,230 international students were enrolled in Idaho colleges and universities and contributed $64 million to the Idaho economy.10
Global Engagement
Since 1961, 1,481 Peace Corps volunteers from Idaho have served in dozens of countries overseas.11