2008 PRESS RELEASES

March 19, 2008
VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND CONSUMER SERVICES INVITES AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS TO PARTICIPATE IN INTERNATIONAL TRADE SHOW
Contact: Elaine Lidholm, 804.786.7686

From the first shipment of tobacco from Jamestown to today’s exports to Mexico, Turkey, Cuba, Egypt, and China, Virginia’s farmers have always found a worldwide market eager for their products.  The global export market is expanding dramatically, and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) encourages farmers to look around the world, not just around the corner, for new marketing outlets. 

VDACS is currently seeking producers who would like to partner with the Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA) at the International Food, Drink, and Hospitality Exhibition in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, May 18 – 22, 2008.  There is no participation fee for this event, and producers may ship up to 25 pounds of product samples free.  SUSTA staff will represent Virginia companies and pass along any leads.  Producers must have the capability to fill large orders and to ship internationally.  Featured products include bakery products, fresh apples and pears, cheese, nuts, jams and jellies, honey, processed fruits and vegetables, non-alcoholic beer, beverage ingredients, milk products, red meats, fruit and vegetable juices, chips, condiments, dietetic foods and snack foods. 

Producers interested in taking advantage of this opportunity to introduce their products to importers and key buyers in the Middle East should contact Keith Long in VDACS’ Office of International Marketing.  Call 804.371.8990 or e-mail keith.long@vdacs.virginia.gov.  The registration and product shipment deadline is April 18. 

For information on domestic and international trade events, go to the VDACS Web site at http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/t-events.shtml.