The American Soybean Association (ASA) joined fellow farm and food organizations as well as Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today for the launch of the U.S. Agriculture Coalition for Cuba (USACC). Soybeans, soybean meal and soybean oil combine to represent the nation's largest agricultural export, and soy meal is a critical protein source in pork and poultry feed. The demand for these products is growing exponentially in Cuba, as it is in other Latin American and Caribbean markets, and ASA President Wade Cowan noted the potential of the opening of the Cuban market for American soy growers in the following statement:

"Like any new and developing market, Cuba represents a great opportunity for soybean farmers in the U.S.," said Cowan. "We are proud to be part of the USACC because expanding our relationships with markets like Cuba generates concrete value for American farmers by increasing demand not only for soybeans, but also for the livestock and meat products that make up our largest customer base. While we've been able to sell beans in Cuba for years now, we're a long way from being completely open for business in that country. As part of the USACC, we'll work with our fellow organizations at all points in the supply chain to ensure that the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba is one that benefits both our countries."

More information on the USACC, including a list of charter members, can be found at www.USAgCoalition.com.