Washington Potato Commission trade director likes USPB's international marketing plan

Farm and Ranch March 20, 2009 The US Potato Board held its annual meeting last week in Denver, Colorado. Matt Harris, Director of Trade for the Washington State Potato Commission, was at the meeting where the Board's domestic and international marketing programs were reviewed as were plans for the future. Harris: "My emphasis was more on international trade and what is exciting about international trade is that they are now looking at new markets for frozen potato products." Harris says one of those markets is Viet Nam. Harris: "There are some exports of frozen product going to Viet Nam. And what the Board is planning is this April there is going to be a small delegation of Board members and growers going into the market, and they are going to be assessing the market as far is this a good placement of dollars to help promote U.S. French fries." Harris won't be able to make that trip but says processed potato grower Mike Pink of Pasco will. The annual meeting of the US Potato Board also means a changing of the guard. Harris says Washington grower Bart Connors stepped down as Board Chairman but will still be involved. Harris: "Will become now an ex-officio member of the Potato Board and give guidance to new projects on that executive committee." 09 That's the Northwest Farm and Ranch Report. Brought to you in part by the Washington State Potato Commission. Nutrition today! Good health tomorrow! I'm Bob Hoff on the Northwest Ag Information Network.