(DES MOINES) – Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a statement on Friday following news that Japan will open its market to U.S. ethanol:
“Today is a great day for Iowa farmers and our state’s renewable fuels industry. With Japan opening its market to U.S. ethanol, Iowa can further expand our trade opportunities in that region of the world.
“Agriculture at the hands of hardworking farmers is a vital piece of the U.S. economy. Now, more than ever, ethanol production strengthens Iowa’s ability to continue as an agricultural leader by giving farmers another market for their commodities.
“Iowans think globally and rely on expanded trade opportunities to give farmers another market for their commodities. Today’s announcement moves us forward on that path and further solidifies Japan and Iowa’s long history of friendship.”
Japan is Iowa’s third largest export destination, purchasing over $1 billion in Iowa made/grown products in 2017. Japan is Iowa’s largest customer outside of NAFTA.
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