LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen is wrapping up a two-day trip to London this week to tout Nebraska’s beef and ethanol production, and talk about energy opportunities with international officials.
“Given the recent trade framework that exists between the U.S. and the U.K. and the favorable conditions for exporting more beef, ethanol and other American products, this is a good time to build relationships and understand better how Nebraska can play a role in meeting the short and long-term needs of that nation,” Pillen said in a press release.
The governor’s transatlantic visit began Wednesday and finishes Thursday night. During the trip, he met with members of the U.S. Embassy and others, including the United Kingdom’s chief trade negotiator, Graham Floater.
While overseas, Pillen attended a dinner hosted by the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Meat Export Federation, which featured Nebraska beef. Guests included UK importers and members of the culinary industry.
“Nebraska beef is the best on earth — and I’m proud to build relationships and create opportunities for our ranchers to sell their beef around the world,” Pillen said in a social media post about the event.
Pillen will also have an opportunity to meet government representatives, and those in private industry interested in new trade opportunities around increased ethanol quotas. Under the U.S.-UK Economic Prosperity Deal, the United Kingdom implemented a duty-free quota allowing 370 million gallons of U.S. ethanol to be imported annually, eliminating previous tariffs of approximately 20%.
Prior to his return, Pillen will have another chance to promote U.S. beef during a dinner event at Smith & Wollensky, an upscale steakhouse in London. The invited crowd includes more than 100 importers, distributors and others in the British foodservice and retail industries.
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