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Ind. economic development trip to Brazil, Colombia highlights opportunities

Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Bruce Kettler represented the state’s ag industry on a recent economic development trip to Brazil and Colombia.

He says the trip provided an opportunity to advocate for business growth and expansion of Indiana agriculture and strengthen relationships with the countries.

“The biggest thing that I think I noticed that was important in both countries was helping them understand where Indiana is and who we are and what are the assets we have that they should think about,” he says.

Kettler tells Brownfield opportunities vary with Brazil and Colombia.

“Brazil from an agriculture perspective is obviously a big competitor in many respects, yet I think there are a lot of ways to be able to collaborate,” he says. “Colombia is a very different situation when it comes to agriculture. There’s tremendous opportunity for Indiana agriculture products in Colombia.”

He says Indiana and Brazil and Colombia share strong agricultural roots and growing agbiosciences sectors, which makes the Hoosier state an ideal destination for South American companies looking to expand into the U.S. market.

Kettler joined Indiana’s Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger on the trip.

Audio: Bruce Kettler, Indiana State Department of Agriculture