BUSINESS BRIEFING / TRADE

California exports fell 25% in June from the same period a year ago and were at their lowest level since 2005.

The figure was released by the University of California Center Sacramento based on data from the U.S. Commerce Department.

International trade and economics advisor Jock O’Connell said a slight increase between May and June did not signal a turnaround. June’s exports are historically higher than those in May, he said.

Data show the state sent $10 billion worth of products abroad in June. That was up $479 million from May but down from $13.3 billion in June 2008. Exports of manufactured goods were down 29% while agricultural exports fell nearly 24%. Through the first six months, exports are down 23% compared with 2008.