Oregon agribusinesses join S. Korea trade mission

The Oregon Department of Agriculture and seven Oregon agribusinesses are joining the U.S. Department of Agriculture on a trade mission to Seoul, South Korea, this week.

“Our trade relationship with Korea is very important to Oregon agriculture,” said Alexis Taylor, ODA director. “Last year, we shipped nearly $380 million in food and ag exports, making Korea our second largest international market. While many of our companies on this mission already have long-standing customers in Korea this is a great opportunity for them to meet face-to-face, learn how to better position themselves in the market and explore new opportunities.”

Last year, the top food and agricultural products shipped to Korea from Oregon by value were wheat, animal fodder, seeds and frozen vegetables. Oregon growers shipped $27 million in seeds and frozen potatoes. More recently, fresh Oregon potatoes began to ship to Korea, with $1.2 million transported last year.

Oregon’s companies will join representatives from nearly 50 U.S. agribusinesses and farm organizations for the four-day mission. Participants will spend their days meeting one-on-one with customers and learn about current market conditions though a series of presentations and site visits.

Oregon Agribusinesses Traveling to Korea:

7Bev Global, West Linn

All Berry & Fruits, Salem

Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods, Milwaukie

Dragonberry Produce, Canby

Ioka Marketing/Farms, Silverton

OreGro Seeds, Albany

Oregon Potato Commission, Portland