North Carolina's biggest food export is pork.
North Carolina's Leading Agricultural Exports
In 2022, North Carolina's agricultural sector showcased its strength on the global stage, with various commodities contributing significantly to the state's export economy. Among these, pork emerged as the most valuable food product exported internationally.
Top Agricultural Export Commodities by Value (2022)
Based on recent export data from 2022, here is a breakdown of North Carolina's top agricultural and food exports by value:
| Commodity | 2022 Export Value | 2022 State Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Pork | $781 million | 3 |
| Broiler Meat | $584 million | 1 |
| Tobacco | $533 million | 1 |
| Other Plant Products | $497 million | 13 |
As the table illustrates, pork exports generated an impressive $781 million, positioning it as North Carolina's highest-earning food export. While broiler meat also represented a significant food export at $584 million, it was surpassed by pork in terms of value. Tobacco, although a top overall agricultural export for the state, is not classified as a food product. This highlights the substantial contribution of North Carolina's livestock industry, particularly swine production, to its international trade profile.
