With India taking over the top spot in population and its growing economy, it behooves the state of Iowa to conduct trade trips there to help promote the products we produce here in the state. Recently Governor Reynolds conducted such a trip, and Iowa Ag Secretary Mike Naig accompanied her. It was a chance for him to promote our agricultural goods.
Secretary Naig talks about his initial reactions to the opportunity we have for trade with India.
One thing that most people may not realize is how strong India’s ag production sector is already. Secretary Naig breaks down what they are already are doing, and how their economy is growing.
Naig says that the culture of India is one of self-sufficiency. However, there are opportunities for Iowa to have trade relations with India. The Secretary Identifies some of those areas.
India is very protectionist and a large bureaucracy. Naig says to get anything done; you have to be ready to play the long game. However, Naig believes the growth of India’s economy is going to need some more short-term solutions.
