CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming exports shot up by nearly a quarter last year thanks to stronger soda ash sales and expanded sales of uranium, liquefied natural gas, bentonite and industrial equipment and parts.

According to the Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration, exports from the state climbed from $983 million in 2010 to $1.2 billion last year.

That is a 24 percent jump and more than in either of the previous three years,

Wyoming soda ash exports increased by $77 million last year.

Wyoming also exported tens of millions of dollars' worth of air and gas pumps, compressors and fans, as well as uranium, liquefied natural gas and light oils other than crude.

The Associated Press reports that Canada and Mexico combined to buy one-third of Wyoming's exports.

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