Gov. Heineman Witnesses Signing of $10 Million in Ag Sales
during Cuban Trade Mission

(Havana, Cuba) Gov. Dave Heineman today witnessed the signing of $10 million in agricultural sales during his fourth visit to Cuba. The Governor arrived this morning for a one-day visit that coincided with the opening of the 25th annual Havana International Trade Fair.

The deal signed today is for $10 million in U.S. wheat that will be sourced from Nebraska. The agreement was signed between Louis Dreyfus and Alimport Chairman and CEO Pedro Alvarez. With this latest contract, Nebraska has sold more than $70 million in agricultural products since the state’s export relationship was established in 2005.

“I appreciate the positive reception Nebraska agricultural products have received here in Cuba,” Gov. Heineman said. “The early results of this trip are evidence of the continuing and expanding relationship we enjoy with Cuban officials.”

While the Governor departs tomorrow, several members of the Nebraska trade delegation are exhibitors at the fair and will remain in Havana to continue exploring opportunities for additional sales agreements.

Gov. Heineman said, “Nebraska has been rewarded for our diligence in maintaining a strong export relationship with Cuba. Our success here is due in large part to the hard work and preparation of our Nebraska companies and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture. Their persistence will ensure that this trade mission is a success for our farmers and ranchers.”

Nebraska Ag Director Greg Ibach said, “This latest visit has helped further the strong relationship we’ve built in recent years, and puts Nebraska in a good position to take advantage of opportunities for expanded trade in the future. Investing in a good relationship now is important to securing Nebraska a seat at the table in the years to come.”

In addition to negotiations with Alimport officials, Gov. Heineman and members of the delegation toured the Havana International Trade Fair and met with Raul de la Nuez Ramirez, Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Trade.

Representatives of Nebraska’s wheat, corn, soybean, beef, and pork industries participated in the trade mission. This was the seventh international trade mission of Gov. Heineman’s administration.