Branstad to Lead Trade Mission to China and Japan

At his weekly press conference today, Gov. Terry Branstad announced he will lead a trade mission to China and Japan in mid-November. Gov. Branstad was joined by President of the Iowa Pork Producers Association, Al Wulfekuhle and Executive Director of the Iowa Beef Industry Council Chris Freland. 

In 2015, Iowa companies exported $1.2 billion in manufactured and value-added goods to China and $1.1 billion to Japan. China is Iowa’s third largest export destination, while Japan is the fourth largest. In addition, Japan is Iowa’s leading export market for pork and beef products. Iowa companies exported $564 million in meat products to Japan in 2015. 

“This mission marks my fourth visit to China and third to Japan since 2011 and is a testament to my long-standing commitment to strengthening economic ties with these important export markets for the state,” said Governor Branstad. “Trade missions like this one allow Iowa companies to expand their markets outside of the U.S. and ultimately creates more jobs and strengthens our economy.”

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