By Andi Anderson
Iowa agricultural leaders have returned from an important trade mission aimed at building stronger global partnerships and promoting the state’s high-quality farm products. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig led a 12-member delegation to Vietnam and Indonesia as part of a mission organized by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA).
The trip brought together representatives from Iowa’s major grain and protein commodity groups, who traveled to Southeast Asia to strengthen trade relationships and highlight Iowa’s strong agricultural output.
Vietnam and Indonesia are two of the fastest-growing markets in Southeast Asia and offer significant potential for U.S. agricultural exports. Vietnam ranks among the top 10 global importers of U.S. farm products, purchasing more than $4.5 billion in 2024.
During the same year, Indonesia imported $3.8 billion in U.S. agricultural goods. Iowa alone exported approximately $223.4 million to Vietnam and $297.6 million to Indonesia in 2024. These figures demonstrate the importance of maintaining and expanding connections with international buyers.
Reflecting on the mission, Secretary Naig emphasized the value of Iowa’s agricultural strengths and its reputation among global partners. “Our trade mission to Indonesia and Vietnam was productive, and I was proud to lead a delegation of Iowa farmers into two fast-growing markets where we already have strong, established relationships,” said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. “These are dynamic economies that value quality, reliability and sustainability, and Iowa competes exceptionally well on all three. We see clear opportunities to expand sales in both countries as their populations grow, and their middle classes and incomes continue to rise.”
The delegation visited Hanoi, Vietnam, and Jakarta, Indonesia, from November 14–23. Over the course of the mission, participants engaged in trade policy discussions, market briefings, and business development meetings.
Delegates represented several key groups, including the Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association, and Iowa Soybean Association.
IEDA worked closely with international partners such as the U.S. Grains Council, U.S. Meat Export Federation, U.S. Soybean Export Council, and USDA Foreign Agricultural Service to coordinate meetings and identify promising export opportunities.
IEDA’s Global Business team plays a leading role in connecting Iowa companies with world markets, educating businesses about exporting, and supporting international companies interested in investing in Iowa.
This mission further supports Iowa’s long-term goal of strengthening global trade ties and expanding agricultural opportunities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Iowa, Business