As the US government considers thawing relations further with Cuba, the support for a more lenient policy is surprisingly emerging in the South.

In 2000, Congress passed an agricultural exemption to the trade embargo.  Alabama regularly sends cotton, corn, soybeans, railroad ties, and utility poles.

Every state agriculture commissioner along the Gulf of Mexico with the unsurprising exception of Florida, supports easing the Cuban embargo.

With the trade markets shrinking or just stagnant, businesses are searching for more resources.  Therefore lifting the embargo is becoming much more favorable for our elected officials.

According to Ron Sparks, Agriculture Commissioner, Alabama leads the nation in the total amount of agricultural goods produced for shipment to Cuba.  $450 million in economic activity is generated per year.  Over 2000 jobs are affected by this trade.

Commissioner Sparks hopes one day to ship the new Hyundais built in Montgomery to Cuba through the improved port of Mobile.  It is only 800 miles from the plant to Havana.

“I grew up in the Cold War,” Sparks said.  “I thought Russia was the worst thing that could ever happen to America.  But I also remember the day President Reagan stood on the wall and said, “President Gorbachev, tear down this wall. Now let’s tear down the wall between us and Cuba.”

Contact Commissioner Sparks at 334-240-7171 for more information about the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries.  You can find help in selling and promoting your company.

The Smart Business Luncheon will be held on June 23^rd at 11:30 AM at the Chamber office.  The presenter will be Meaghan Williams, Executive Director of BNI.  The program will be on how small businesses can network to increase revenue.  Call the Chamber, 845-2741, to make reservations.