Nixon explores agri-trading opportunities with Cuba

Following President Barack Obama’s recent move to normalize diplomatic relations with Cuba, Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon directed the state Department of Agriculture to explore potential trading opportunities.

The governor is asking department officials to review whether Missouri agricultural producers, processors and growers could benefit from trade with the island country, according to a news release.

“Cuba provides exciting prospects as an export market for the world-class goods produced by Missouri farmers,” Nixon said in the release. “Our agricultural exports are up 14 percent this year alone and help drive our state’s economy and the growth of Missouri jobs.”

Nixon’s office also is in communication with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. State Department about possible trade missions to the country.

Recently, the Missouri Department of Economic Development reported the state’s total July through October exports rose 4.7 percent to $11.3 billion from $10.8 billion in the same time last year.