By Andy Smith
PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Rhode Island exports increased by 9 percent in the first half of 2012, compared with a comparable period in 2011, according to figures released by the federal government.
The International Trade Administration, part of the Department of Commerce, said exports from Rhode Island grew from $1.1 billion during the first six months of 2011 to $1.2 billion in 2012.
Export categories include waste and scrap, chemicals, machinery and primary metal goods. Destinations for Rhode Island goods include the United Arab Emirates (up 499 percent), Japan (up 363 percent), Taiwan (up 190 percent), Turkey (up 183 percent) and Italy (up 136 percent).