Kansas businesses exported a record $6.72 billion in products and services last year, reflecting an expanding economy and opportunistic businesses.

The total was up 37 percent from $4.9 billion a year earlier and surpassed the previous high of $5.1 billion in 2000.

“Setting a new record for exports in 2005 shows that Kansas businesses are succeeding in their efforts to expand and tap new overseas markets,” Gov. Kathleen Sebelius said, in a statement. “With more international consumers buying Kansas products, we are seeing new jobs created in Kansas and a state economy that is stronger than ever.”

Lawrence businesses are doing their part. The Kansas Department of Commerce recently named Lawrence-based MartinLogan Ltd. as one of four finalists for its Exporter of the Year Award, to be presented June 12 in Wichita.

MartinLogan earlier this month secured permission from the Chinese government to begin selling products designed and made in Lawrence – high-end audio speakers that can cost up to $20,000 a pair – in China.

MartinLogan’s sales in China amounted to $200,000 in 2005, but the company expects such business to account for as much as 10 percent of corporate sales during the next five years. The company is on track for total sales of $24 million this year.

International sales will continue to provide growth markets for MartinLogan, said Rafael Nevares, company president.

“Canada’s currently our largest trading partner, but certainly, over the next five years, we see countries like Russia and China being in our top five,” Nevares said.

China now is the third-leading buyer of Kansas goods, trailing only Canada and Mexico, the Commerce Department reported. China last year purchased more than $313 million in Kansas goods and services, an 80 percent increase since 2003.