ODA to participate in Governor’s Trade Mission to Asia, Nov. 6

An opportunity to provide a taste of Oregon agriculture – Governor Kate Brown will lead a trade mission to South Korea and Japan from November 5-16, 2019. Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) Director Alexis Taylor will lead the agriculture delegation within the larger trade mission to Asia. Representatives from Oregon wine, fruit and beef industries make up the ag delegation. ODA’s goal is to support and grow the state’s food, beverage and agricultural product exports to these key international markets. “South Korea and Japan are Oregon’s top two agricultural export markets,” said ODA Director Alexis Taylor. “This trade mission will allow us to build on existing relationships and generate momentum for new partnerships in each country. Our agricultural producers are the best people to tell their story and to show consumers and agribusiness leaders the unique and high-quality ag products that Oregon has to offer.” As part of the mission ODA and the ag delegation will meet with government officials, potential customers, importers, and distributors in each country. South Korea and Japan continue to be Oregon’s top agricultural export markets. In 2018, Oregon’s total agricultural exports to South Korea totaled more than $424 million and Japan, Oregon’s number one export market was worth more than $666 million. Oregon wines, snacks, fruit and products made from Oregon ingredients will be featured at many events held in both countries. This trade mission is an opportunity to share a taste of Oregon while connecting with future customers and investors. Perhaps more importantly, Governor Brown and ODA will also be visiting and honoring current partners, investors and customers of Oregon’s food and agriculture, including seafood, hay, straw, craft spirits and wheat. ODA Director, Alexis Taylor and staff were in Japan in June 2018 to promote Oregon food, beverage and agriculture and introduce potential buyers and distributors to spirits, fruits and specialty foods. Taylor stressed the importance of relationships and long-term investment for increasing agricultural trade opportunities abroad. Oregon’s food and agriculture industry supports 686,518 Oregon jobs, $29.71 billion in wages, $12.12 billion in taxes and $2.85 billion in exports. Oregon Trade Mission Agricultural Delegation: Phelps Creek Vineyards, Hood River; Oregon Fruit Products, Salem; Oregon Wine Board, statewide; Country Natural Beef, Burns.