Wisconsin’s manufacturing sector is increasingly participating in international trade and engaging with foreign investors, as highlighted in a recent report commissioned by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) alongside the Midwest Manufacturing Association. The report emphasizes the significant role of manufacturing in Wisconsin’s economy, employing nearly half a million people and contributing $73.7 billion to the state’s GDP in 2024.
The state’s manufacturing exports reached an estimated $24 billion, directly supporting 60,440 jobs and indirectly supporting an additional 88,620 jobs. “Wisconsin is a manufacturing state, so it is no surprise that manufacturers lead the way on exports,” stated WMC President & CEO Kurt R. Bauer.
Agriculture and construction machinery topped Wisconsin’s export industries at $1.76 billion, followed closely by computer equipment at $1.74 billion and navigational & control instruments at $1.63 billion. Canada remains Wisconsin’s largest trade partner with exports valued at $7.94 billion.
However, imports have surpassed exports in recent years, leading to a trade deficit for the state. In 2024, 29% of Wisconsin’s demand for manufactured goods was met through international imports. Pharmaceuticals were the top import industry at $4.80 billion.
Bauer commented on this trend: “Wisconsin has long played an important role in the national and global economy… It’s imperative we support this cycle through good policymaking.”
Foreign direct investment also plays a crucial role in Wisconsin’s manufacturing employment landscape. In 2022, 75,900 jobs were tied to foreign-owned companies—a figure that has doubled over fifteen years.
