Lt. Governor Gregg and Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig to participate in Trade Mission to Colombia, Panama

Mission will be led by Iowa Economic Development Authority Feb. 3-9, 2019

DES MOINES, Iowa (January 29, 2019) – Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig will be participating in an international trade mission to South America, led by Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) officials, on Feb. 3-9, 2019. This will be Lt. Governor Gregg’s first trade mission since taking the oath of office on Jan. 18, 2019.

“Trade missions are an important part of strengthening Iowa’s economy.  They help us open and expand manufacturing and agricultural markets, while simultaneously building upon our international relationships,” said Lt. Gov Gregg. “In a new and fast changing economy, Iowans are connected to the global market.  I am honored to represent Iowa in Columbia and Panama on our state’s behalf.”

Iowa is the second largest ag exporting state in the country with more than $13.2 billion in agricultural exports annually. Last year, over $80 million in Iowa goods went to Colombia, with a 247% increase in trade just within the first six months of 2018. Colombia is a top 25 trading partner with the United States overall, and is America’s eleventh largest agricultural export market. Panama is a strategic partner for U.S. exports, serving as a crossroads of international trade located between two oceans and two continents.

“One of my top priorities is to focus on expanding markets for Iowa’s crop farmers, livestock producers, and agribusinesses,” said Secretary Naig. “I look forward to joining Lt. Gov. Gregg and Iowa farmers on this trade mission to market Iowa’s brand and quality agricultural products.

Others participating in the trade mission include: Iowa Pork Producers Association; Iowa Corn Growers; Iowa Soybean Association; Iowa Farm Bureau Federation; and Midwest Premier Foods.