US farmers, ranchers push for greater Cuba access

[Judi Lynn]

Posted on Tuesday, 04.28.09
US farmers, ranchers push for greater Cuba access
By BECKY BOHRER
Associated Press Writer

NEW ORLEANS -- The farm lobby is using President Barack Obama's easing of some travel restrictions to Cuba as an opportunity to push for increased sales of rice, meat, vegetables and other goods to the island nation.

Congress cleared the way for Cuba to buy U.S. agricultural commodities in 2000. But groups such as the USA Rice Federation say a 2005 interpretation of the law by an arm of the Treasury Department, requiring payment before goods were shipped, severely restricted sales.

"More and more in Congress feel the Cuba (trade) policy has served its time and it's time for new and better ways to deal with" it, said Jamie Warshaw, federation chairman and a rice mill operator in Lake Charles, La.

At least 15 senators have joined agricultural groups in calling for greater trade with Cuba, including Montana Sen. Max Baucus, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee. He plans to introduce legislation to make it easier for U.S. farmers and ranchers to do business with Cuba.

More:
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/americas/AP/story/1021282.html