New Study Ranks Louisiana at Top for Export and Income Growth

The National Chamber Foundation recently released many of the Top 10 rankings in Enterprising States 2012, a new report singling out states for areas in economic growth and more. The Foundation is a nonprofit affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with programs that focus on three goals: (1) examining emerging business issues, (2) driving public debate, and (3) informing business and government leaders.

Louisiana ranked in many of the Top 10 lists, including No. 1 for export growth, No. 2 for income growth, and No. 2 in tax climate for new firms. The foundation says positive workforce, continuing investment in port infrastructure, and incentive policies are helping the state’s economy. All 50 states and Puerto Rico were evaluated on their policies, priorities, and programs to determine the rankings. The report looks at how states build economic momentum and was prepared by Praxis Strategy Group and Joel Kotkin.

Other Louisiana rankings include No. 7 for short-term job growth, No. 9 for job placement efficiency, and No. 10 for best tax environment for mature firms. Louisiana is stronger now than ever before, and is definitely gaining economic momentum. Economic growth and diversity, new technology, innovation, and exports are just some of the areas in which the state is excelling.

“We’ve pursued policies to make Louisiana competitive with the rest of the country and the world to encourage business investment and create opportunities for our people to pursue their dreams here at home. By eliminating burdensome taxes on businesses, restructuring our workforce development system, overhauling our ethics system, and keeping our fiscal house in order, Louisiana now has one of the best business climates in the country,” said Governor Bobby Jindal. “While we have made great progress, our work is not yet done. With the help of our education reforms, we will continue to aggressively position Louisiana for even greater economic growth and more opportunities for our people.”