BOISE, Idaho (KLIX) Idaho's governor says the recent trip to China proved to be a success and identified future potential in the Asian market. The Office of Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter says the trip was coordinated by the Idaho Department of Commerce and Department of Agriculture from October 28 to November 5. “Our recent mission to China was one of the best we’ve had,” Governor Otter said in a news release. “The interest we received in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou was a reflection of the great products and services we were promoting, along with the tremendous market potential that remains in China.”

“Personal relationships are an essential part of doing business in the Chinese market,” Governor Otter said

The trip included several Idaho economic and business leaders including representatives of the Idaho Potato Commission, Idaho Wheat Commission, and the company Kingston Fresh. Otter's office said the group represented various parts of Idaho's economy including potatoes, wheat, dairy products, agricultural and temperature-controlled supply chain equipment, dietary supplements, personal care products, forage, animal feed and supplements, recreational vehicle sourcing services, and university research/international education.

Almost 20 percent of Idaho agricultural products are sent to other countries for a total export value of more than $2 billion last year. Exports sent specifically to China totaled $560 million in 2015. The Mandarin speaking nation is the second largest export market for Idaho. The governor says trade missions led by the states head often helps companies gain access to markets that are often times hard to get to. “Personal relationships are an essential part of doing business in the Chinese market,” Gov. Otter said. “We identified some excellent opportunities, and I look forward to seeing their future successes.”

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