For Immediate Release: January 26, 2012
Contact: Mary Trupo (202) 482-3809
Obama Trade Official Says Advanced Manufacturing and Exports Are Key To Strengthing North Carolina Economy
Under Secretary Sánchez expands on President Obama’s call for strengthening U.S. manufacturing
RALEIGH, N.C. – On the heels of the president’s State of the Union address, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Francisco Sánchez today visited Raleigh, North Carolina, to echo President Obama’s call for a renewed focus on American manufacturing to help increase U.S. exports, create jobs, and strengthen our economy. Sánchez met with local business leaders and delivered remarks during the Leadership North Carolina’s Fifth Annual Forum, an event which brings together business professionals statewide to discuss topics critical to North Carolina’s future.
“A strong U.S. manufacturing sector is essential in shaping an American economy built to last,” Under Secretary Sánchez said. “Producing American-made products, and selling them in markets around the world, helps businesses succeed, puts people to work and helps expand the circle of opportunity.”
The Forum was the last stop on Sanchez’s three-day visit to North Carolina where he met with state and local business leaders to discuss the future of textiles and manufacturing, specifically their importance to North Carolina and the country’s economic recovery.
On Wednesday, Sánchez toured the North Carolina State University College of Textiles new Nonwovens Institute Partners Lab. It is revolutionizing research and development in air, blood, and water filtration, and demonstrates the College’s close partnerships with leading companies throughout the world.
“The College of Textiles’ efforts are bolstering advanced manufacturing and giving young people the skills they need to succeed in the 21st century economy,” Sánchez said. “U.S. producers have retooled their efforts to focus on higher-value, niche products, to invest more in research and development, and to modernize their facilities and technology. This commitment to advanced manufacturing and to producing the best quality products is crucial in today’s dynamic global economy.”
The textile and apparel industry is one of the largest employers within the U.S. manufacturing sector, and a dominating force in the international market. U.S. textile and apparel exports totaled $19.7 billion in 2010, and grew by 14 percent through November 2011. The textile and apparel industry is one of North Carolina’s main drivers of exports, representing 10 percent of its total commodity exports through September 2011.###
International Trade Administration
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