Hosting of Business Development Mission
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture
Arranged all aspects of the 15-person delegation representing various agricultural commodities and industries. The 5-day tour included meetings with the US Embassy and consulate, a market overview and tour, business meetings, and a cultural introduction.
Background:
The US is the largest foreign supplier of food and agricultural products to Japan, with Minnesota being the 11th largest US state exporter.
Additionally, Japan is Minnesota’s fourth largest export market, representing 8% of food & agriculture exports (2021) - an impressive total of $752m.
Minnesota’s top export products to Japan include pork, dairy products and ingredients, pet foods, and corn.
Seeking New Opportunities for Minnesota Ag Products
In September 2023, Paul and his team hosted a delegation that included state lawmakers and representatives from Minnesota agricultural organizations. The goal of the mission was to identify new opportunities for Minnesota agricultural products and brainstorm strategic inroads.
The visit included tours of grocery and convenience stores, industrial partners such as Prima Ham, and Sanwa Starch, and meetings with the US Embassy consular staff.
