FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
For more information contact:
Bill Clary
(502) 564-1137
TRADE OFFICE PROVIDES VALUABLE SERVICES
TO KENTUCKY BUSINESSES IN MEXICO
FRANKFORT, Ky. — A Monroe County business found success selling hardwood lumber to Mexico with the help of the state’s trade office there. The Kentucky Agricultural and Commercial Trade Office, a joint venture of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and the state Economic Development Cabinet, is prepared to create more success stories for Kentucky businesses.
“Mexico is Kentucky’s third-largest trading partner, and we have a long history of doing business there,” Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. “Our trade office in Guadalajara is an excellent investment that brings business and jobs to Kentucky.”
Roy Anderson Lumber in Monroe County is one of many businesses that have benefited from the trade office’s relationships and expertise. The southern Kentucky sawmill has sent three shipments of hardwood lumber to Mexico, most recently in May. That shipment had trouble clearing customs until trade office staff intervened and followed the shipment until it reached its destination.
Roy Anderson executives took two trips to Mexico in 2008. KACTO staff identified potential clients for Roy Anderson, provided market research, set up meetings, assisted with contract negotiations and provided other logistical support.
“In Mexico, business is done on the basis of relationships,” said Silvia Alonso, director of the trade office. “We always suggest our companies develop and strengthen relationships in order to do business successfully in Mexico.”
Kentucky exported more than $34.6 million in livestock and crops to Mexico in 2008, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.
“Exporting is a great way to generate business and create jobs,” Commissioner Farmer said. “I encourage any Kentucky business that is considering exporting to contact the KDA’s international marketing program.”
For more information about exporting agricultural products, contact the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s international marketing program at (502) 564-4983.
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