News

Iowa delegation returns from trade mission to Taiwan, Japan

Iowa’s deputy ag secretary says a recent trade mission to Taiwan and Japan was an opportunity to explore an expansion of ag exports.

Grant Menke tells Brownfield the two countries have been critical trading partners for Iowa producers.

“Taiwan and Japan are both very strong and stable markets for U.S. ag export markets. Both ranked in the top 10 in 2023.”

The mission, coordinated by the Iowa Economic Development Authority, included representation from Iowa’s meat production, grain, and meat processing industries.

Menke says there’s some potential to increase pork exports to Taiwan. “They do have a strong domestic pork industry. They are roughly 80% self-sufficient in pork in Taiwan. We think U.S. pork could play a greater role.”

He says Japan is the state’s fourth largest export destination, and corn exports to the country increased 25% through September.

INTERVIEW: Iowa Deputy Ag Secretary Grant Menke 11-25-24