FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, June 15, 2011

CONTACT:
Margaret Hart, Communications Coordinator
651-201-6131, Margaret.hart@state.mn.us

Buyers Mission offers economical export opportunity for food, ag companies

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota food and agricultural products companies interested in exporting to foreign markets are encouraged to attend an upcoming Buyers Mission in Minneapolis. Potential exporters can meet directly with buyers from more than 20 countries at the Midwest Buyers Mission sponsored by the Export Association of the Midwest USA, and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA). The event will be held July 26 at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Minneapolis.

MDA Commissioner Dave Frederickson says the buyers mission is an economical business opportunity for Minnesota companies that are already experienced in selling to foreign markets, as well as for those considering exporting for the first time.

“These missions are great way for our food and ag products companies to showcase their products and learn more the export process without the cost of a trip overseas,” said Frederickson.

Investigating export markets typically involves travel to the market of interest, participation in international food shows, and/or hiring export representation in other countries. For the investment of a little time and a participation fee of only $150, the Midwest Buyers Mission will schedule participants to meet directly with buyers and importers.

Buyers from the following countries have been invited to participate in the Midwest Buyers Mission:  Algeria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Korea, Lebanon, Mexico, Nicaragua, Palestine, Philippines, Singapore, Barataria-Trinidad & Tobago, UAE, and Vietnam.

The deadline to register for the Midwest Buyers Mission is July 11. These missions fill up fast so interested companies are encouraged to not delay. For more information, contact MDA Marketing Specialist Brian Erickson at brian.erickson@state.mn.us or 651-201-6539, or visit www.tinyurl.com/3ruvcup.

-30-