Not to be overlooked in the global business marketplace, Polk County is a major contributor of export-related sales, jobs, and taxes. Although phosphate and citrus continue to be in the forefront in maintaining economic well-being, Polk has experienced major diverification in the last few years. Products and services ranging from plastic fish bait to computer software leave Polk county daily for worldwide distribution. The county's extensive rail and water facilitate the rapidly expanding export base.

This study was conducted to obtain accurate information about the size and character of existing international trade in Polk county. The research pool consisted of 470 area manufacturers and members of the Trade Association. A comprehensive survey and follow-up system yielded a 94 percent response rate. Results are based on survey response and multipliers factors designed to account for the "ripple effect."

Trade

• $3.3 billion in annual sales is attributalbe to international trade in Polk county.
• An estimated $80 million has been generated by Polk trade missions.
• Also affecting the monetary base are unquantifiable international incoe to the county through banking and freight forwarding services.

• $6.7 million in property taxes and $17.8 million in tangible taxes were paid to the county in 1994 by companies involved in international trade for a total 1994 tax contribution of more than $24.5 million.

• 5709 jobs in Polk county firms are directly due to international trade and an etimated 32,300 jobs are indirectly created for a total of 38,809 trade attributable jobs.
• These 44,518 jobs represent approximately 23 percent of the county's 199,500 member work force.
• Without these jobs, Polk county's unemployment rate would increase 22 points to 30.5 percent.

Reverse investment

• Over 5,300 jobs are provided by 28 internationally-owned companies.
• Reverse investment in Polk County (foreign ownership is represented by 12 countries. The United Kingdom is responsible for 30 percent of the investment; Japan and West Germany are the other big investors.

The following sample provides an indication of the diversity of the trade activities on Polk's 200 exporters.

Water Skis

Computer Peripherals

Steel Pipe

Disposable Cups

Fule Tanks

Styrene Resin

Trash Loaders

Building Materials

Garden Supplies

Phosphate Products

Outboard Motors

Aircraft Support Equipment

Bovine Semen

Plumbing Supplies

Laser Goggles

Acrylic Spa Shells

Citrus Products

Beer

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