SALEM, Ore. — As global travel and in-person connections resume, the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) is reengaging in trade opportunities to crucial Oregon’s agriculture economy. Nine Oregon agriculture partners, two ODA Marketing and Certification team members and ODA Assistant Director Jonathan Sandau will join Oregon Governor Kate Brown as she leads a trade and education mission to South Korea and Japan from October 14-26. South Korea and Japan are Oregon agriculture’s second and third-largest export markets for food and agriculture products representing nearly $600 million in export sales in 2021.
“Oregon agriculture is honored to renew and strengthen our long-standing relationships with South Korea and Japan,” said Jonathan Sandau, ODA Assistant Director. “This is our first visit since 2019, and we are excited to reconnect in-person following nearly three years of virtual conversations. Sharing Oregon’s agriculture products with the peoples of South Korea and Japan allows our communities to stay connected and develop economic opportunities for Oregon producers.”
Oregon Agriculture Delegation:
- Oregon Blueberry Commission
- Oregon Berry Packing
- Norris Blueberry Farms
- Oregon Raspberry and Blackberry Commission
- AC Foods/Firestone Pacific Foods
- Willamette Valley Fruit Company
- Oregon Wine Board
- Oregon Grass Seed Commission
- Oregon State University-Food Innovation Center
The nine (9) Oregon agricultural companies and commissions in attendance have a unique opportunity to meet with prospective distributors, sales partners, and government representatives interested in pursuing business. The state’s reputation and commitment in environmental stewardship, quality of product, and food safety enhances Oregon’s agricultural product’s desirability and demand with consumers in South Korean and Japan.
Food and agriculture exports contribute to the state’s economy and strengthen Oregon businesses. ODA’s Marketing and Development team is the state’s premier resource for Oregon agriculture companies competing in the global marketplace. The team’s purpose is to assist Oregon food and beverage companies expand into new markets and maintain the relationships needed to export products today and into the future.
— ODA