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(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman announced plans for a third agricultural trade mission to Cuba. Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy and Nebraska Agriculture Director Greg Ibach will lead a delegation to Cuba from April 17 to 20. The trip follows two prior visits in 2005, when a total of nearly $30 million in Nebraska agricultural products was sold.
“During our previous visits, I’d indicated that if an opportunity for additional sales presented itself this spring, Nebraska would be interested in sending another delegation,” Gov. Heineman said. “Based on recent conversations with Cuban officials, I believe we have a wonderful opportunity to build on the exports we’ve already secured, which are benefiting farmers and ranchers across our great state.”
Alimport, Cuba’s purchasing agent for foreign goods, has expressed interest in Nebraska agricultural products, including pinto and dry edible beans, chick peas, wheat, corn, beef, and pork, as well as animal feed and soy-based products.
The Governor is inviting Nebraska agricultural producers prepared to sell products this spring to be part of the trade delegation. Anyone interested in participating should contact the Nebraska Department of Agriculture at 800-831-0550.
Ibach said, “Unlike most trade missions, Cuban officials come to these meetings prepared to actively negotiate sales. Our experience has shown that knowing the people they are negotiating with can see a business deal through to delivery is most important to Cuban leaders, and Nebraska has a solid reputation in this area.”
Congress created Cuban embargo exceptions for the sales of food and medical supplies in 2000. In 2005, the U.S. exported $361 million in products to Cuba, the bulk of which were agricultural products such as cereals, meats, grains, and dairy products.
“These trade missions are an opportunity for Nebraska businesses to reach out to new markets, and the fact that we are being welcomed back to Cuba is a tribute to those who participated on previous trade trips,” Gov. Heineman said. “I know this delegation will be in good hands. I trust the leadership of my lieutenant governor and Greg’s experience in the marketplace.”
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