Key Takeaways:
- Governor Brad Little met with Idaho potato farmers and a Japanese delegation to discuss fresh potato exports to Japan.
- Governor Little encouraged Japanese and U.S. officials to work toward a trade deal for Idaho’s fresh table stock potatoes.
- He will lead a trade mission to Japan and Taiwan in November to open more opportunities for Idaho’s agricultural industry.
- Idaho is the largest potato producer in the U.S., harvesting about 310,000 acres annually and generating over $1.3 billion in 2023.
- Opening the Japanese market for Idaho fresh potatoes is expected to result in more than $150 million in annual sales.
Negotiations for Fresh Potato Exports
Governor Brad Little joined Idaho potato farmers and a Japanese delegation in eastern Idaho on Thursday to tour a local farm and continue ongoing discussions regarding fresh potato exports to Japan. The visit represents a step forward in the negotiations to allow the introduction of Idaho’s fresh table stock potatoes into the Japanese market.
Governor Little emphasized the importance of reaching an agreement soon, stating, “Here in Idaho, we are extremely proud of our agricultural industry, which remains the backbone of our economy. Japan has long been one of Idaho’s most important trading partners. We are very proud of this decades-long relationship and friendship. Our agriculture industry, and especially our potato sector, are strengthened by the success and innovation of many Japanese-American farmers.”
Trade Mission Announcement
In an effort to further advance trade discussions, Governor Little announced plans to lead a trade mission to Japan and Taiwan in November. The trade mission will seek to open up additional trade opportunities for Idaho companies and industries, including agriculture. Specific details of the trade mission will be released closer to November.
The potential opening of the Japanese market to fresh U.S. potatoes could lead to sales exceeding $150 million annually. Japan is already a key trading partner for Idaho, and this deal would further solidify the state’s position in the global potato market.
Idaho’s Leading Role in Potato Production
Idaho is the largest potato producer in the United States, harvesting approximately 310,000 acres of potatoes annually. In 2023, the state’s potato industry generated more than $1.3 billion in revenue. Expanding fresh potato exports to Japan is viewed as a significant economic opportunity that could enhance Idaho’s agricultural exports and support the state’s farmers.
Jamey Higham, CEO of the Idaho Potato Commission, expressed appreciation for Governor Little’s efforts. “We are extremely grateful for Governor Little’s efforts aimed at moving along the negotiations between our two countries. The Japanese officials’ visit to Idaho is a positive step in the right direction, and we look forward to the Governor’s follow-up discussions in Tokyo in November,” Higham said.
