Facilitating and Promoting Kansas Trade
Kansas is a major player in the international marketplace and is recognized for its major industry aptitudes in the areas of agriculture, aviation and manufacturing. In 2008, Kansas experienced a record high in exports totaling over $12.5 billion. Since 2004, exports have increased 153%, ranking Kansas #2 by percentage increase in the nation over that period.
The Kansas World Trade Center understands how valuable these industries are to the Kansas economy. For that reason, we aim to provide resources and information to meet the specific needs of the firms and individuals within these industries.
Aviation
Wichita, Kansas is the heart of general aviation manufacturing in the United States. According to Milken Institute study, Wichita has the highest concentration of aerospace manufacturing employment and skills in the nation. While there are over a dozen U.S. general aviation manufacturers, Cessna Aircraft Company, Hawker Beechcraft and Bombardier Learjet, the three OEMS residing in Kansas accounted for 47 percent of the airplanes produced in the United States in 2008.
Agri-Business
Agri-business is the backbone of the state economy. In the nation, Kansas ranked sixth for total agricultural exports during 2008. By commodity Kansas ranked #1 in wheat & products, #1 in feeds and fodders, #4 in live animals and meat, #5 in feed grains & products, and #10 in soybeans and products. Bioscience industries are growing areas of opportunity for Kansas as well. With an increasing concentration of animal health and bio-related firms, Kansas is sure to be recognized as a leader in this area.
EcoPartnership
Environmental sustainability is a growing trend in the business community. The City of Wichita is staying on the forefront of this trend with their commitment under the EcoPartnership program with the City of Wuxi, China. This voluntary agreement stems from the U.S. - China Ten Year Energy and Environment Cooperation Framework established at the fourth meeting of the U.S. - China Strategic Economic Dialogue. This agreement essentially serves as a form of grassroots diplomacy, connecting two nations at a sub-national level to effect positive change in the business community to help protect our environment while maintaining economic growth. To date, only seven EcoPartnerships have been formed with a mission to advance the energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability of both partners. The Wichita-Wuxi EcoPartnership is one of two EcoPartnerships in the State of Kansas.
