West Allis, Wis. — Exports of U.S.-made construction machinery totaled $8.2 billion for the first half of 2007, a 22-percent increase compared to the first six months of 2006 according to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers.

Construction equipment export volume to the Asia region overall rose 67 percent to $1.16 billion at mid-year 2007. Exports to China grew 181 percent for the first half of 2007 to $319.5 million, making China No. 6 among leading export destinations for U.S.-made construction machinery.

Central America took delivery of $815 million in equipment during the first half of 2007, a 28-percent year-over-year jump, while South America increased its purchases 14 percent to $1.08 billion.

Exports to Africa grew 37 percent to $434 million, while exports to Australia/Oceania jumped 9 percent to $719 million.

Canada topped all countries by receiving $2.6 billion in U.S. construction equipment exports, a 3-percent hike. Exports to Australia were $696 million, a 9-percent increase. Rounding out the top five were Mexico's $588 million, a 26-percent jump; Chile $346 million, a 40-percent leap; and Belgium $331 million, a 78-percent hike.

Following 6th place China were South Africa, which leaped 63 percent to $251 million; Venezuela $177 million, a 72-percent jump; Germany, $176 million, a 70-percent increase; and Russia up $165 million, a 57-percent incline.