ISA Hosts Multi-Country Trade Team

ISA hosted on October 11, 2011, a trade team that included representatives from several countries.  The fall harvest tour coordinated by the Illinois Department of Agriculture included team members from China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, El Salvador, Mexico, Honduras, Japan and South Korea.  Individuals on the tour either already purchase Illinois grain or are interested in purchasing Illinois grain for their companies in the near future.

David Headley welcomed the trade team on behalf of ISA, followed by comments from ISA Director Wendell Lutz.  Jim Mackey with the Illinois Department of Agriculture presented the overall goal of the Bureau of Marketing and Promotions Division.  Wendell fielded questions about agriculture and his farming operation during the evening, and several individuals also spoke one-on-one with him.  Each participant gave a brief summary about their companies, what they enjoyed about Illinois and objectives for coming to Illinois.

The evening was great, with dialogue among the participants, an exchange of agriculture ideas and a chance to clear up confusion with regard to agriculture practices.  The team was scheduled for a shipping presentation and a tour of the Chicago Board of Trade.