U.S. exports of ag-related machinery totaled almost $5.7 billion in 2004, an increase of close to 19% compared to the previous year. All major world regions recorded gains, led by exports to Australia (up 64% to $673 million) and South America (up 43% to $401.5 million), according to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers.
The 2004 double-digit improvement is the third consecutive year of growth for U.S. farm equipment exports, following a 9% gain for 2003 ($4.8 billion) and a 6% gain for 2002 ($4.4 billion). Exports in 2001 totaled $4.2, and $4.5 billion in 2000.