05/06/08 Trade mission, world trade

Governor Butch Otter's office deems it a success. 16 Idaho companies joined Otter for a week-long trade mission to Mexico last month. The governor met with government officials to discuss bilateral trade relations and their support of field trials of Idaho bean seed in Mexico. More than 50 Mexican bean farmers and industry representatives attended a conference to learn about the benefits of using Idaho certified bean seed to increase their yields. Otter also discussed what his office calls 'unjustified trade restrictions against fresh potatoes' and the prospects of expanding market access beyond the 26-kilometer border zone. Mexico has long been one of Idaho's top ten export markets and is the state's second-largest export market for agricultural products. Speaking of trade the Idaho Export Council has a day-long seminar to help companies that want to engage in foreign business. The Wednesday event in downtown Boise includes topics like doing business in Mexico and taking advantage of free trade agreements. Their knowledge of international partner agreements, export finance terms and documentation requirements are instrumental to their success. Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott