CHICAGO (AP) – Gov. Pat Quinn’s office says exports from Illinois increased 17 percent in the first three months of 2012. That continues a strong run of export growth for the state and the country.

Quinn said Friday in a news release that Illinois exports increased to $17.2 billion in the first quarter. That was up from $14.7 billion a year earlier. Sales of industrial machinery, coal products and auto parts were key factors.

The state’s exports increased by 29 percent in 2011. Every U.S. state increased its exports last year.

Experts say a weak U.S. dollar is a key factor because it makes American products cheaper for foreign buyers.

Quinn says he plans to meet with officials gathered in Chicago for the 2012 NATO Summit to try to build trade links.

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