As we look for ways to bolster demand for our Iowa-produced ag products, we need to send officials to different countries to share the story of our goods and the quality we produce. Colombia has become a larger trading partner than many of us would have guessed a dozen years ago. We have a free trade agreement with them, but it could be in jeopardy after their latest elections. That is why it was determined that we needed to send a trade delegation down to Colombia to reiterate this trade agreement’s benefits.
Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Deputy Secretary Grant Menke was one of those who went on the trip. He talks about the opportunity this trip offered.
Menke talked about the importance of Colombia to our trade portfolio. They are in the top 10 as customers for a lot of our goods.
Menke says it is a partnership that has been mutually beneficial. Colombia has seen increased purchases of goods from the United States as well.
After their latest elections, their new government leaders want the country to become more self-sufficient. While that is a noble endeavor, Menke mentions the Colombians have a long way to go to achieve that goal.
You can catch our full discussion with Iowa Deputy Ag Secretary Grant Menke on the December 5th episode of Ag Matters PM.
