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- calendar_today November 2, 2026
New England's export sector plays a significant role in defining the region's economic landscape. By focusing on leading industries, the region has developed export-driven opportunities that have implications for both employment and wages.
According to U.S. Census Bureau Foreign Trade Statistics compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the top six export industries in New England include chemical manufacturing, computer and electronic product manufacturing, transportation equipment manufacturing, machinery manufacturing, primary metal manufacturing, and miscellaneous manufacturing. These sectors each contribute substantial trade dollar values, with chemical manufacturing leading the group.
The prominence of these advanced manufacturing sectors suggests a regional focus on high-value, specialized production. Such industries generally require a skilled workforce and often provide compensation above average for the broader economy. The scale of export activity in these sectors supports not only direct employment in manufacturing roles but also supports jobs in supply chains, logistics, and ancillary business services.
Furthermore, the export economy’s concentration in technologically intensive industries such as computer and electronic product manufacturing and transportation equipment manufacturing is likely to create employment opportunities that offer competitive wages. This dynamic positions New England as a hub for specialized manufacturing talent and sustains a wage structure attractive to both existing workers and potential newcomers to the region.
