FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, September 25, 2023

MEDIA CONTACT: Brian Walsh, brian.walsh@state.sd.us

Lt. Governor Rhoden, DANR, and SD Trade Kick Off Trade Mission to Mexico

PIERRE, S.D. –  This week, Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden and Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) Secretary Hunter Roberts are leading a trade delegation to Mexico to participate in meetings with Mexican buyers, agricultural industry leaders, and government officials to enhance South Dakota’s trading relationships with Mexico. The trade mission is organized by South Dakota Trade.

“We are excited for the opportunity to build South Dakota relationships in Mexico,” says DANR Secretary Hunter Roberts. “Due to its rapidly growing economy, current trade relations, and diversity, Mexico is a country full of opportunities and is a key trading market for South Dakota businesses.”

Joining the Lt. Governor and Secretary Roberts on the mission are representatives from South Dakota Trade, Advanced Sunflower, Inc., Agropur US, C.A.W Industries, Houdek, Schumacher Enterprises, North Start Liquids, and the South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council. These companies are participating in customized, business-to-business matchmaking meetings as part of their itineraries.

South Dakota Trade is using State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grant funds from the U.S. Small Business Administration to support the delegation.

South Dakota Trade is working in partnership with the U.S. Grains Council, the U.S. Dairy Export Council, U.S. Soybean Export Council, Food Export Midwest, and U.S. Embassy officials in Mexico to maximize the opportunity for South Dakota’s delegation. Additionally, the trade mission coincides with the Food Tech Summit & Expo, one of Latin America’s largest food & beverage trade shows that includes 18,000+ buyers from 20+ countries.

“We are excited to be showcasing South Dakota’s value-added agricultural products in Mexico,” said Luke J. Lindberg, President & CEO of South Dakota Trade. “It is our responsibility to put willing buyers in the room with our willing sellers; and that’s just what we are doing this week.”

Mexico is South Dakota’s second largest trade partner with an export value of approximately $600 million in 2022. Trade with Mexico supports over 13,000 jobs in South Dakota and the state’s highest value exports include distillers grains, pork and pork products, beef and beef products, and soybeans.

For more information on South Dakota exports visit https://southdakotatrade.com/trade-in-sd.

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