(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Dave Heineman announced that Nebraska is organizing a trade mission to Cuba in the coming weeks to explore export opportunities for the state’s agricultural products and medical supplies.

The Governor has instructed Greg Ibach, director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA), to organize a trade delegation, which will visit Cuba from Aug. 13-17. The ongoing U.S. embargo on trade with Cuba has exceptions for food and medical supplies.

“As we have seen in recent days by the rush of Taiwanese customers to buy Nebraska beef before trade is suspended, our agricultural exports are known the world over for high quality and exacting standards,” Gov. Heineman said. “This trip is not about international politics. It is about doing the best we can for Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers by aggressively pursuing fertile markets.

“In our discussions with trade and industry leaders, we were advised that demand and current market conditions make this an opportune time to explore new opportunities on behalf of Nebraska’s largest industry.”

There is strong interest in the export of beans produced in western Nebraska, as the crop serves as a main source of protein in Cuban diets, according to state dry bean industry representatives. In 2004, Nebraska ranked first in the nation in great northern bean production, second in pinto bean and third in dry edible bean production.

Ibach said, “Cuba is an emerging market for U.S. agricultural products, and we see a great deal of potential there. Nebraska stands to benefit greatly from sales of several commodities. We plan to use this rare opportunity to explore as many trade avenues as possible.”

Last year the U.S. exported $400 million in products to Cuba, the bulk of which were agriculture products. In 2003, roughly $260 million of U.S. goods were shipped to the Caribbean island nation.

U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service trade fact sheets indicate that while the Cuban hotel and restaurant sector is small, it has a growing market for meat products. In addition to strong demand for edible dry beans, Cuba is also the largest importer of wheat and wheat products in the Caribbean.

Gov. Heineman, following several discussions with Nebraska’s Department of Economic Development, also has expressed interest in Cuba’s potential market for exported medical supplies made in Nebraska, and has requested the trade delegation explore that option.

“I am confident that a Nebraska delegation will help Cuban leaders recognize the quality of our products,” Gov. Heineman said. “Nebraska is a trustworthy partner for our international markets and we are excited about the possibilities this mission offers.”

NDA staff has already begun outreach efforts to inform those with potential interest in exporting to Cuba about the upcoming visit. Space will be limited, but anyone interested in participating in the trade mission should contact NDA officials as soon as possible at (800) 422-6692.