March 2, 2009

TOKYO, Japan - The Food Export Association of the Midwest USA (Food Export-Midwest) and the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) today announced four Michigan companies are attending Foodex Japan, the largest food show in Asia, March 3-6.

“This week’s international trade delegation is just one way MDA is promoting Michigan’s quality products, to expand our markets and diversify our state’s economy,” said Don Koivisto, MDA director. “Safeguarding and expanding international markets for Michigan products are critical to growing our state’s second largest industry.”

The Michigan companies involved in the trade mission are Graceland Fruit, of Frankfort; Shoreline Fruit Growers, of Traverse City; Koeze, of Grand Rapids; and the Cherry Marketing Institute, of DeWitt.

While in Japan, the companies will meet with Japanese importers and distributors in the retail, food service, and manufacturing industries. Companies will also have the opportunity to meet buyers from other Asia countries.

Japan is the second largest economy in the world, importing 60 percent of its food supply. Michigan food and agriculture exports to Japan in 2007 totaled $55.6 million making it Michigan’s second largest agricultural trading partner.

For information on additional domestic and international trade events, go to the MDA Web site at www.mdainternational.com.