Vilsack: Checkoff Groups can Promote U.S. Agriculture in Cuba

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says checkoff groups can promote U.S. agriculture in Cuba. While in Cuba with President Obama, Vilsack announced USDA will allow the 22 industry-funded Research and Promotion Programs and 18 Marketing Order organizations to conduct authorized research and information exchange activities with Cuba.  These groups, which are responsible for creating bonds with consumers and businesses around the world, will be able to engage in cooperative research and information exchanges with Cuba about agricultural productivity, food security and sustainable natural resource management.  Vilsack called the announcement "a significant step forward in strengthening our bond and broadening agricultural trade between the United States and Cuba."

In 2014, Cuba imported over $2 billion in agricultural products including $300 million from the United States.  However, from 2014 to 2015, U.S. ‘agricultural exports to Cuba fell 48% to just under #149 million, the  ($148.9 million), the lowest since 2002.

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