TRADE MISSION NOTES:

Trade missions benefit potato growers, boost exports

Facts

  • Potato production and processing generates in excess of 20,000 Washington jobs.

  • Washington producers raise 145,000 acres of potatoes – three times the area of Seattle – with an average yield of 61,000 lbs. per acre.

  • Washington potato growers produce almost 9 billion lbs. – the same weight as 45 aircraft carriers – worth $700 million.

Photo of Matt Harris. Matt Harris
Washington State Potato Commission

09/01/10

Washington is the most trade-dependent state in the U.S., which holds especially true for potatoes. Over half the Washington potato crop is exported as either fresh or processed product.

The Washington State Potato Commission is looking forward to participating in Governor Gregoire’s September trade mission to China and Vietnam, two of its significant Asian trading partners. Previous missions with the Governor to Asia and Mexico have not only provided opportunities for potato exporters to meet with business leaders, but also offered access to government agencies to discuss trade issues.

The personal relationships established on trade missions between our commissioners and potential buyers can’t be replaced. The credibility of traveling with the Governor gives us an important ‘in’. These interactions have generated return trade missions of foreign buyers, business for the potato industry and progress in trade discussions.