Secondary Kindred Indicator
Manufacturing exports

This measure tracks the total value of manufactured goods exported from the region. Historically, manufacturing has been a key driver of economic growth in the region and this kindred indicator, and this indicator reflects the plan’s call for organizing regional economic development around its industry clusters. The export of goods connects metropolitan economies like the Chicago region with a growing global consumer base. Exports have played an important role in past economic recoveries for both Chicago and peer metropolitan economies. Data comes from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Origin of Movement series.