Virginia's agricultural exports in 2011 totaled $2.35 billion, surpassing a record set in 2009 of $2.3 billion, according to the Washington Post.

The state's top three export markets were in Asia, Europe and North Africa, according to Virginia's Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry, Todd Haymore. Morocco was the top customer, purchasing more than $360 million in goods, specifically grains, in 2011, reported the Richmond Times-Dispatch. China was the second largest market and Canada is now the third-largest customer for the state.

Virginia's crops, specifically soybeans, grains and meat products, met an increased demand in the global market. Political instability abroad, specifically in North Africa, fueled the need for these types of exports.

"It's the need for more grains to feed themselves and their livestock," Haymore told the Times-Dispatch. "Working with our agribusinesses, we are able to capitalize on these opportunities when they are out there."

More than $100 million was brought in from new export sales last year. Other countries that made up a significant percentage of Virginia's export market included Switzerland, Egypt, Tunisia, Cuba, Taiwan, Vietnam and Saudi Arabia.

Agriculture and forestry make up Virginia's largest industry and collectively contribute $79 billion to the annual economy.