At 2 p.m. ET on Wednesday, April 15, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) will host a one-hour webinar showcasing the “Export-Oriented Industry Clusters, Trade and Transportation in Appalachia” report.  This research report provides a comprehensive assessment of industry clusters and international trade in Appalachia. The report includes an analysis of key export-oriented industries and industry clusters and their economic characteristics, reflecting the evolving industrial landscape of Appalachia and the global economy these industries serve. This analysis identifies seven key export-oriented industry clusters in the Appalachian Region: (1) chemicals and plastics; (2) consumer products (including food and paper products); (3) electronics; (4) machinery; (5) metals and minerals; (6) mining; and (7) transportation equipment and vehicles.

Through analysis of these export-oriented industry clusters, this report provides insight into the ports that they use most frequently to ship exports, key trading partners, and updates on key freight trends such as the growth in warehousing and distribution, and the long-term decline of coal.  Increased understanding of these industry clusters – such as areas of specialization and multi-modal transportation infrastructure needs – can help policymakers develop effective strategic economic development plans for the region.

Meet the presenters: