The U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Penny Pritzker, recently released a report that points to great news for not only the City of Mission, but for the entire Mission-McAllen-Edinburg metro region all together. The report, known as the International Trade Administration’s 2015 Metropolitan Area Export Overview, determined that the Mission-McAllen-Edinburg, TX metro area reached a record breaking $5.3 billion in total goods exports.

There was an $11 million goods exports increase from 2014 to 2015, which helped the region become one of the top performing areas in comparison to 63 other metro regions.

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Pritzker noted that, “Exports continue to be a source of growth for the [region’s] economy…[which] is one of 63 metropolitan areas across our nation that set a record for goods exports last year. The Department of Commerce continues to focus its services on assisting more [local-based] firms sell their ‘Made in America’ products to global consumers, which will support additional growth and good-paying job.”

In total for the year 2015, U.S. metropolitan area goods exports exceeded $1.3 trillion and accounted for 89 percent of total goods exports. One hundred and fifty-six metropolitan areas reported merchandise exports worth more than $1 billion last year as well.

Some additional highlight for the 2015 economic upturn in the Mission-McAllen-Edinburg Metropolitan Area include:

• Being one of 63 metro areas to achieve record goods export levels.
• Almost 69 percent of goods exports were shipped to markets where the United States has official trade agreements in force.
• Key merchandise export categories included computer & electronic products such as electrical equipment, appliances, components, and transportation equipment.

Of worthy mention is the current administration’s commitment to a trading system that institutes high-standard, 21st century trade agreements. One of the most viable agreements thus far set in place is the Trans Pacific Partnership, which helps to enhance overall economic growth, improve global competitiveness, and provides for a sustained U.S. global economic leadership in the face of an ever changing global market.

The Mission-McAllen-Edinburg Metro should see continued growth and additional opportunities to sell more products because of these continually improved new trade agreements. Truly, the current free trade agreement partnership markets account for a vital and viable share of exports for not only our beautiful City of Mission, and the rest of the Rio Grande Valley, but the nation as well.

Unsurprisingly, this report has already begun to garner the region much attention, and will hopefully assist in making the area a 21st century economic powerhouse in south Texas.

One of the individuals paying heed to the amazing economic growth in the Rio Grande Valley is Daniel Rodriguez, Director and International Trade Specialist of Commercial Service San Antonio, who recently stated, “We are thrilled to hear the news that the McAllen, Edinburg, and Mission areas had a record-setting year in 2015 for exports. When we see an increase in exports from our community, we definitely have to recognize the hard work these companies and employees put into ensuring their product or service successfully reaches international markets.”

The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce is working hard for you.

Because the City of Mission and its community of businesses are such an integral component to the Mission-McAllen-Edinburg Metro, we want to ensure that this amazing economic prosperity continues year after year. That’s why the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce is striving to help you make your business as financially successful as possible. Our business organization can help you develop your business, your voice, clients, and connections.

If you’re interested in joining us in our vision please contact us here.

At the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce, we’re not just your advocate, ally, and greatest resource — we’re also your family.