This is not a one-way conversation, we are also here to learn about Cuba and to talk about the possible trade in which the United States could buy tobacco, rum, tropical fruits and more, said James E. Byrum, outgoing president of the Michigan Agribusiness Association.
During a press conference with other senators and representatives of that northeastern state at Cuba’s National Hotel, Byrum called for an exchange in research to learn from each other on agricultural issues. I have visited the island several times, in times of ups and downs, but we always appreciate the reception we receive here, he added.
We are looking for the opportunity to move to other markets, he commented after recalling that in the past turkey and beans arrived from Michigan.
For Republican state Senator Daniel Lauwers, the Caribbean nation’s market is small but growing.
We want to improve our performance for the benefit of both countries, remarked the also second in command of the Republican party in the Michigan Senate, after recalling that Cuba buys around two billion dollars a year in food, one eighth in the US market.
Lauwers, a member of the Committee on Agrarian Affairs in the local Senate, said that these conversations serve to learn from each other and see what can be done in the future.
sus/abo/rgh/ro
