American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) president Bob Stallman has called on House Agriculture Committee congressional members to support the Travel Reform and Export Enhancement Act (HR 4645), which would lift some key US-imposed restrictions on trade with Cuba.
Cuba holds “great market potential”, according to the AFBF, which is why the association is advocating for the easing of restrictions on exports to Cuba and supporting HR 4645, sponsored by House Agriculture Chairman Collin Peterson (D-Minn.) and Rep. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.).
The bill would reverse the restrictions on “payment of cash in advance”, eliminate the third country bank requirement and lift the ban on travel.
According to AFBF, passage of the legislation would make agriculture a strong player in the Cuban market and increase US agricultural exports.
“We have seen the promise the market holds,” said Mr Stallman. “Unfortunately, because of restrictions on US exports to Cuba, US farmers have not been able to benefit from the full potential of the market.”
US agriculture has seen significant growth, but has also experienced significant setbacks, since being allowed to trade with Cuba in 2000.
On average the US has exported roughly US$320m in agricultural products per year since 2000, reaching a high of almost US$700m in 2008.
But, Mr Stallman said the US is not viewed by Cuba as a reliable supplier due to sales restrictions and the ability of the US government to “alter those restrictions at a whim”.
“Our competitors do not have the same obstacles in trading with Cuba we face,” explained Mr Stallman. “Eliminating these restrictions will decrease the advantages the US has given our competitors and restore the advantage to US farmers. These actions will make it easier for Cuba to purchase US commodities and, most importantly, will reduce the cost of purchasing our commodities.
“US agriculture is not requesting the embargo be lifted, but rather for Congress to take the small step of lifting key restrictions that will increase US agriculture’s competitiveness in the market,” Mr Stallman added. “Now is the time for Congress to take action to ease some of the current trade restrictions.”
Related articles
-
ArticleDry conditions a concern for Greek stonefruit producers
The north of Greece is known for its reliable rainfall, but this year’s abnormally warm, dry weather is a worry for peach and nectarine growers preparing for the new campaign
-
ArticleEFRA to quiz supermarkets on fairness in supply chain
Supermarkets’ senior executives to face questions from MPs over food price inflation, profits and relationships with producers
-
ArticleSunny outlook for Anecoop’s Bouquet watermelon campaign
Good weather has been favourable for crop yields and quality, while wide-reaching marketing campaign will seek to reactivate consumption
More from Eurofruit
-
ArticleCrimson Snow apple volume overtakes Kiku for first time
As Kiku Variety Management celebrates 25 years in business, the success of this white-skinned variety points to a bright future for the club apple specialist
-
ArticleBrand refresh signals new direction for Olympic Fruit
Company launches new website and movie inviting partners and customers to ‘Be part of the Olympic journey’
-
ArticleAMFresh names Ian Wood as MD for UK and Northern Europe
Wood has previously held senior global roles at SIG Group and Honeywell
No comments yet