Nebraska ag leaders work to expand exports to Japan and the Philippines, as they accompany Governor Jim Pillen on a trade mission.
Pillen says ethanol was a key part of talks in Japan, where that country is phasing in higher blends of biofuels.
The governor says corn, wheat, beef, and pork are also represented on the trip.
The governor was asked about the cost of the trip, given the state’s current budget shortfall.
“Expenses from the state are very minimal. Trade missions are industries, so corn board, pork board, wheat board, those are folks, ethanol, those are folks that because we are promoting or my view is investing in Nebraska, we’re not spending a dollar,” he said.
Pillen said there is a cost to the state but said commodity groups are covering most of the expenses.
Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue says Japan remains a major customer for Nebraska corn, beef and pork, while the Philippines offers growth potential with a young population and demand for U.S. products.
“There’s a reason we need to be in line and knocking on the doors because, if we’re not, other countries are going to take our place,” McHargue told the Rural Radio Network.
McHargue says ethanol may be one of the brightest spots. He says Nebraska’s low-carbon ethanol story caught attention in Asia, especially with buyers looking at higher blends and cleaner fuel.
“Why not? If you’re going to be buying ethanol, why not buy it from Nebraska?”
McHargue says more export demand can mean real dollars back to farmers and ranchers.
