U.S. potato delegation pushes for fresh access to Japan

A delegation of U.S. potato industry representatives met with USDA officials and staff in Tokyo this week to highlight the importance of securing fresh market access for U.S. potatoes in Japan.

The delegation included Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council (NPC); Jared Balcom, past NPC president and current member of the USDA Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee; Blair Richardson, President and CEO of Potatoes USA; and Matt Lantz of Bryant Christie, Inc.

According to NPC, gaining access to Japan for U.S. fresh potatoes could represent around US$150 million in additional exports annually.

The visit took place without USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, who cancelled her participation due to the U.S. government shutdown. USDA Undersecretary for Trade Luke Lindberg led the U.S. delegation in her absence.