Contact: Scott Holste, (573) 751-0290
Channing Ansley, (573) 751-0290
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dec. 23, 2014
Gov. Nixon directs Department of Agriculture to explore opportunities for Missouri agricultural producers, processors and growers to benefit from trade with Cuba
JEFFERSON CITY – Gov. Jay Nixon has directed the Missouri Department of Agriculture to explore the opportunities for Missouri agricultural producers, processors and growers to benefit from trade with Cuba. The Governor today said the recent decision by President Obama to normalize diplomatic relations with Cuba has the potential to create significant opportunities for Missouri’s number one industry, agriculture.
“Cuba provides exciting prospects as an export market for the world-class goods produced by Missouri farmers,” Gov. Nixon said. “Our agricultural exports are up 14 percent this year alone and help drive our state’s economy and the growth of Missouri jobs. I look forward to the Department of Agriculture detailing the additional economic opportunities we would gain by expanding our trade market in Cuba.”
“This is a historic opportunity for Missouri to expand our surging agricultural markets and continue to feed, fuel and clothe the globe,” said Agriculture Director Richard Fordyce. “Working in partnership with outstanding producers and commodity groups throughout the nation and the state, I am excited to carry out the Governor’s directive to maximize our potential for economic growth and prosperity through expanded trade opportunities with Cuba.”
Gov. Nixon said his office also is moving forward to communicate with officials at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. State Department about opportunities for trade missions of Missouri business, agricultural and government officials to Cuba focusing on agricultural exports from Missouri.
In a statement issued last week, American Farm Bureau Federation President Bob Stallman said, “The American Farm Bureau Federation strongly supports President Obama’s move toward normalized relations with Cuba. Farm Bureau has long called for a removal of trade restrictions with Cuba, and we believe expanded trade with the U.S. can serve as a cornerstone for additional reforms. The president’s opening to Cuba promises to improve trade conditions by making it easier for Cuba to buy U.S. agricultural and food products. This is welcome news for our nation’s farmers and ranchers.”
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Scott Holste
Press Secretary for Missouri Governor Jay Nixon
573-751-0290
