Agricultural Export Summary

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 Five Agricultural Exports, Estimates, FY 2016

RANK EXPORT RANK AMONG STATES VALUE MIL $
1st Soybean 16 369.7
2nd Other plant products (see 1) 20 217.6
3rd Cotton 11 98.5
4th Corn 18 88.2
5th Feeds and other feed grains (see 2) 19 86.9
  Total Agricultural Exports 29 1,364.7

1.  Includes sweeteners and products, other horticulture products, planting seeds, cocoa, coffee, and other processed foods.
2.  Includes processed feeds, fodder, barley, oats, rye, and sorghum.

More information on agricultural exports:
State Export Data
Agricultural Trade Briefing Room

Tennessee is in the Top Ten Among States in the Following

RANK EXPORT VALUE MIL $
5th Unmanufactured tobacco 147.2
7th Cotton and linters 45.4
8th Cottonseed and products 5.1

Tennessee's Top Value-Added Agricultural Exports and Their Top Markets

RANK EXPORT MARKETS VALUE MIL $
1st Beverages United Kingdom, France, Germany 569.6
2nd Fats and oils Canada, Djibouti 84.4
3rd Chocolate Canada, Mexico 24.5
4th Flour products Canada, Bahamas 2.4
5th Prepared Vegetables Canada, Japan 2.3

Tennessee Department of Agriculture
Business Development Division
PO Box 40627, Nashville, TN 37204
(615) 837-5160