Minnesota’s exports are up.

The Department of Employment and Economic Development today reported they rose 17 percent in the first quarter of 2010 compared to a year earlier. That means state manufacturers sold $3.9 billion worth of goods to other countries.

"The improving export market is helping Minnesota businesses and is a sign that the global economy is recovering," DEED Commissioner Dan McElroy said. "Asia was particularly strong during the quarter, with sales to the region jumping 75 percent from a year ago."

Canada remains Minnesota’s strongest trading partner, taking in about a quarter of the state’s exports.