Since it was founded in 1776, Tennessee has been a state blessed with natural resources. Agricultural products have always been one of the most important parts of Tennessee's economy and continue to be even today. As we enter a new age in our state's history, international trade comes to the forefront.
Tennessee products are enjoyed not only statewide but globally. Over the past five years, international exports have increased nearly fifty percent and exports of its three main products have more than tripled. Since 2002 all Tennessee agricultural exports have increased from 650 million dollars to 925 million dollars (USDA ERS) and continue to grow. Agricultural products make up a huge portion of Tennessee's exports every year and show no sign of slowing down.
We are a state filled with great business leaders and creative entrepreneurs. With the stage set for global success, Tennessee can only thrive as we work toward a better tomorrow for Tennessee agriculturalists.
Top 5 Agricultural Exports, Estimates, FY 2006
RANK |
EXPORT |
RANK AMONG STATES |
VALUE MIL $ |
| 1st | Cotton and Linters | 6 | 290.5 |
| 2nd | Other | 13 | 170.8 |
| 3rd | Soybeans and Products | 15 | 114.7 |
| 4th | Wheat and Wheat Products | 26 | 64.4 |
| 5th | Tobacco Unmodified | 3 | 63.5 |
| Overall | 24 | 923.6 | |
| More information on agricultural exports: State Export Data Agricultural Trade Briefing Room Contact Nora Brooks, (202) 694-5211 |
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Top 5 Counties in Agricultural Sales, 2002
RANK |
COUNTY |
% OF STATE TOTAL RECEIPTS |
VALUE MIL $ |
| 1st | Warren | 4.3 | 93.9 |
| 2nd | Bedford | 3.9 | 85.6 |
| 3rd | Robertson | 2.9 | 64.9 |
| 4th | Gibson | 2.9 | 64.4 |
| 5th | Obion | 2.9 | 62.9 |
| State Total | 2199.8 |
Tennessee's Top Value-Added Agricultural Exports and Their Top Markets
RANK |
EXPORT |
MARKETS |
| 1st | Beverages | Great Britain, Germany and Spain |
| 2nd | Fats and Oils | Canada and India |
| 3rd | Prepared Vegetable Products | Japan, Korea and Saudi Arabia |
| 4th | Flour Products | Canada and Mexico |
| 5th | Animal Feed | Canada, Mexico and Egypt |
The following graphs illustrate the historic changes in Tennessee's top export products to their top market destinations. Tennesse's rank among the states that export to that particular country is listed in parentheses after the country's name. Tennessee exporters can use these illustrations to visualize the ever-changing international marketplace and identify possible opportunities to seize or declining markets to avoid.





If you have any questions or need help, contact:
Tenn Dept. of Agriculture
Market Development Division
PO Box 40627
Nashville, TN 37204
Phone: (615) 837-5160, Fax: (615) 837-5194, Email: kyle.holmberg@TN.gov