(RALEIGH) --  North Carolina merchandise exports increased 5 percent in the first half of 2012 compared to the same period in 2011. That's according to data released by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. Exports from the Tar Heel State grew from $13.4 billion in the first half of 2011 to $14 billion in the first half of 2012.

“Nearly 350,000 jobs are supported by exports and trade with hundreds of small- and medium-sized companies in the state conducting business internationally," said Gov. Bev Perdue.  "International exports are an important segment of North Carolina’s overall economy and this growth will aid in our recovery from the economic recession.”

The top destinations for North Carolina exports included Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Mexico, Canada, and Belgium. Key merchandise export categories include chemicals, machinery manufactures, transportation equipment, computer and electronic products, and textiles.