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Virginia farmers asked to exhibit in Saudi Arabia
RICHMOND - From the first shipment of tobacco from Jamestown to today's exports to Mexico, Turkey, Cuba, Egypt and China, Virginia's farmers have always found a worldwide market eager for their products.
The global export market is expanding dramatically and the Vir- ginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services encourages farmers to look around the world, not just around the corner, for new marketing outlets.
VDACS is currently seeking producers who would like to partner with the Southern United States Trade Association at the International Food, Drink, and Hospitality Exhibition in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, May 18- 22.
There is no participation fee for this event and producers may ship up to 25 pounds of product samples free. SUSTA staff will represent Virginia companies and pass along any leads.
Producers must have the capability to fill large orders and to ship internationally. Featured products include bakery products, fresh apples and pears, cheese, nuts, jams and jellies, honey, processed fruits and vegetables, nonalcoholic beer, beverage ingredients, milk products, red meats, fruit and vegetable juices, chips, condiments, dietetic foods and snack foods.
Producers interested in taking advantage of this opportunity to introduce their products to importers and key buyers in the Middle East should contact Keith Long in VDACS' Office of International Marketing. The registration and product shipment deadline is April 18. Call (804) 371-8990 or e-mail keith.long@vdacs.virginia.gov.
For information on domestic and international trade events, go to the VDACS Web site at http:// www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/tevents. shtml.
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