By MEGGIE I. FOSTER
Assistant Editor

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — On June 1, Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman and a delegation of 20 Hoosier representatives from various sectors of the agriculture industry, will embark on a 10-day economic development trade mission to China.

Skillman made the announcement alongside Joe Kelsay, director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, just minutes before the Women in Ag luncheon hosted by Dow AgroSciences in Indianapolis on April 14.

Dow will be one of nearly 20 agriculture leaders throughout the state making the trip from June 1-10. While details are still forthcoming, highlights of the trade mission include a visit to Zhejiang, Indiana’s sister province, and Beijing.

“China has been identified as a significant area of opportunity to market Indiana ag products,” said Skillman.

Kelsay added, “We have a tremendous opportunity to develop already existing relationships and find new ones to benefit farmers and ag folks around our state.”

China is the fourth-highest importer of Hoosier ag goods, after Canada, Mexico and Japan, according to Skillman. Additionally, in 2008, Indiana exported $610 million in soybeans to China, $29.1 million in poultry products, $12.9 million in hardwood products and $11.9 million in livestock products. In total, Indiana exported $3.88 billion of food and agricultural products abroad in 2008, including nearly $670 million to China.

“Areas that have historically been a big part of Hoosier trade with China include soybeans, hardwoods and animal products,” Skillman explained. “These areas will be a key focus of growth for us.”

Kelsay also pointed out that the quantity and quality of Hoosier ag products have been identified as leading traits of Indiana products.
“Demand for high quality products in China is growing and Indiana can help fulfill this opportunity,” said Skillman.

This trade mission marks Skillman’s fourth international trade mission since assuming office in 2005. She has also led delegations to Central America in 2005, Taiwan and Vietnam in 2006, and Mexico in 2008. According to Skillman, past missions have led to business deals for Hoosier producers of wine, hardwoods, and more. Additionally, leads developed on these missions have matured into export agreements for Hoosier farmers of all types, she mentioned.

“This trip will be funded entirely through private donation – no taypayer dollars will be used to fund this mission,” Skillman added.
The delegation of 20 from Indiana agribusiness, rural comities and commodity organizations is still under development. A full agenda and list of delegates will be released upon finalization by Skillman and Kelsay.