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Alaska is a strong competitor in
international markets. Buyers value the high quality of our resources and our stable business climate. Alaska busninesses understand the importance
of trade and foreign investment and work hard for the prosperity international trade brings. Our export numbers are proof
that we can and do compete successfully on the world market.
International trade is one of Alaska’s greatest success stories. Though Alaska’s population is small,
our natural resources are an economic powerhouse in the Pacific.
My administration’s effort to improve and expand
access to resources in our state is already generating significant economic progress and will create new opportunities
in export. In 2003, international exports went up a robust nine percent to $2.7 billion, a $222 million increase to
Alaska’s private sector.
Trade is especially important because it brings billions of new dollars into the state and creates jobs for local
people throughout Alaska. New jobs are created from international trade every step of the way; from preliminary
scientific studies, to resource extraction, construction, legal work, marketing, sales, finance, and shipping the
products to their final destination.
I thank the Alaska businesses who are working hard every day in international trade and investment. I welcome
international customers and visitors to our state. Together we are creating infrastructure, jobs, and increased
economic opportunity for our residents.
Sincerely yours,
Frank H. Murkowski
Governor
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