What did Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discover on his recent trade mission?

Secretary Naig identified significant market opportunities for Iowa's agricultural products in Vietnam and Indonesia.

Which Southeast Asian countries are showing interest in Iowa's farm exports?

Vietnam and Indonesia are showing strong interest in purchasing U.S. commodities like corn, soybeans, and ethanol.

How can free trade agreements benefit Iowa's agriculture?

Free trade agreements with countries like Vietnam and Indonesia could further boost Iowa's exports of corn, soybeans, beef, and pork.

Home / Business and Economy / Iowa Ag Chief Eyes Asia's Growing Markets

Iowa Ag Chief Eyes Asia's Growing Markets

26 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig explored new markets in Southeast Asia.
Vietnam and Indonesia show significant growth for US agricultural products.
Trade agreements could further boost Iowa's exports to these nations.

Iowa Ag Chief Eyes Asia's Growing Markets

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig has returned from a trade mission to Southeast Asian countries, reporting "exciting market" opportunities for Iowa's agricultural sector. The mission focused on Vietnam and Indonesia, two nations experiencing significant economic growth.

During the trip, agreements were made to increase purchases of U.S. commodities, including corn and soybeans, with Vietnam planning to raise its ethanol blending rate. Iowa's exports to Vietnam reached $223.4 million in 2024, while Indonesia imported $3.8 billion in agricultural goods from the U.S. that same year.

Naig emphasized that while current trade relations are strong, free trade agreements with both Vietnam and Indonesia could unlock even greater potential for Iowa's corn, soybean, ethanol, beef, and pork exports, diversifying markets beyond China.