07/20/07 A productive mission for potatoes in Mexico

Farm and Ranch July 20, 2007 Tours, meetings, french fry promotions and a surprise serenade for the Governor marked a hectic and successful trade mission to Mexico earlier this month for the Washington State Potato Commission. Matt Harris, Director of Trade for the Potato Commission, says it was one of the most productive missions they have had to Mexico. Harris: "Our purpose there was too promote Washington French fries and also to speak to the Mexican government about expanding our access into Mexico. Currently we can ship fresh potatoes within the first 26 kilometers of the U.S.-Mexican border. Those were the objectives of our trip. Create that positive image about Washington state and also tying that with our great products from Washington. Our spectacular french fries and fresh potatoes." Also on the Governor Gregoire led mission from the potato industry were potato growers Frank Martinez from Royal City and Roger Knutzen from the Skagit Valley. The potato representatives hosted fry promotions at a family restaurant in Mexico City and a fast food chain in Guadalajara. One of the many positive outcomes of the mission is the interest in a reciprocal visit to Washington by the restaurant contacts. A highlight of the journey occurred when Potato Commissioner Martinez broke into song during a performance by a mariachi band one afternoon and serenaded Washington's governor. 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.