(Governor's release & G.I. Independent) -- Gov. Dave Heineman on Monday announced several agriculture-related activities designed to expand trade opportunities for Nebraska products in three continents. During the next few months, the state’s agriculture industry will be highlighted through policy discussions and promotional events in Hong Kong, Guatemala and Europe. In October, Gov. Heineman will be the first U.S. governor to speak before the European Union (EU) Parliament's Agriculture and Rural Development Committee this fall. The speaking engagement came about after a recent visit by EU Agriculture Commissioner Neil Parish in May. Parish extended Heineman the invitation after learning about beef production, genetically modified crops and biofuels production in Nebraska. Nebraska also is planning host two trade officials from Cuba during a visit planned for the end of the month. And the state will be part of a major beef promotion event beginning next week in Hong Kong, where Nebraska beef will be featured during a two weeks in eight Jusco stores. Jusco is the largest food retail outlet in Hong Kong. Nebraska will also participate in an international food expo held in Guatemala in September. Gov. Heineman said, “Approving the Central America Free Trade Agreement in 2006 opened the door for lower tariffs, which made Nebraska beef much more competitive with domestic beef and other imports.” In addition to exploring trade opportunities this fall, Nebraska will host a delegation of Guatemalan government leaders visiting the U.S. in August. Biotechnology opportunities are among the topics slated for discussion.
