November 21, 2000

U.S. agribusinesses wishing to explore investment and business opportunities in the Baltic countries will be able to explore the opportunities in a trade mission, sponsored by USDA, and scheduled for Feb. 3- 12. There are 10 openings, and the deadline for applications is Jan. 12. The trip will include Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

USDA encourages small and medium-sized companies to apply, although all agribusinesses are welcome. The program is open to producers of lumber, dairy products, fish, cattle, fruits, and vegetables. Producers of value-added goods such as greenhouse and nursery products, processed meats and foods, bakery products, beer, wine, and soft drinks are also eligible. Participants will have interpreters and a chance to meet with pre-screened strategic or financial partners in the host countries. There will be briefings from U.S. embassy and trade officials, and opportunities to meet with local government and banking officials. Travel in country and some meals will also be provided.

Delegation members must pay their own international travel and hotel costs. Coordinators in USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service encourage interested executives to make preparations soon to allow time for obtaining passports and making other travel arrangements.

The purpose of this mission is to increase the U.S. trade partnerships in the Baltic countries. This is part of the U.S. goal of fostering economic independence in countries that were part of the former Soviet Union.

U.S. exports of agricultural, fish, and forestry products to the Baltic states totaled $284 million in 1999, compared with $170 million in 1998. Major U.S. products in the market were red meats, tree nuts, and poultry.

To participate in the mission, contact: Jim O'Meara, International Affairs Specialist, USDA/FAS. Phone: (202) 690-2895; fax: (202) 690-3982; e-mail:Omearaj@fas.usda.gov.