By Andi Anderson
Ted McKinney, an Indiana native and the CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), has recently been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the agricultural sector.
He was awarded the “Friend of Farmer Award” by the Indiana Corn Growers Association and the Indiana Soybean Alliance Membership and Policy Committee during the Commodity Classic event in Houston.
This accolade is given to individuals who have significantly improved policies for Indiana's farmers and producers. Before his tenure at NASDA, McKinney made substantial contributions as the USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs and as the Director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA).
McKinney's efforts extend beyond the United States. Recently, he led a NASDA delegation to Havana, Cuba, to explore and address trade barriers affecting U.S. agricultural products. This mission aimed to understand the trade rules, the political and economic environment, and how the U.S. and Cuba could collaborate in the future.
Despite the challenges faced by Cuba's agriculture sector, McKinney sees potential in the recently allowed private companies and cooperatives in the country, hoping these changes can improve the current situation regarding food and nutrition.
One of the highlights McKinney shared was the U.S.'s strong trade presence in Cuba, especially in poultry, where Cuba ranks as the third-largest market for U.S. poultry exports. This relationship, he believes, provides a foundation to build upon and enhance trade relations further.
Ted McKinney's recognition with the “Friend of Farmer Award” underscores his dedication and impact on the agricultural sector, both locally in Indiana and internationally, through efforts to foster beneficial trade relationships and policies.
Photo Credit: agi-vision-award-indiana
Categories: Indiana, Business, Crops