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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today Congressman Berry (AR-01) joined a bipartisan group of House members along with U.S. Chamber of Commerce President Thomas Donahue at a press conference today to urge the lifting of the 47-year-old Cuba embargo. The group also called for lifting the travel restrictions for all U.S. citizens, which would allow unlimited travel to the island.
"Reestablishing trade with Cuba is an important priority for Arkansas as well as America," said Berry. “Reopening this new market would mean more business for our state. In addition, lifting the embargo would mean significant opportunities to generate increased revenue for our country and support job creation."
"The Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce appreciates Congressman Berry and his colleagues for their support of lifting the embargo against Cuba particularly as it relates to agriculture," said Brad Edwards, Chairman of the Board of the Jonesboro Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Jonesboro is home to the largest rice mill in the world therefore we are particularly supportive of this effort because of Cuba’s interest in buying rice form Arkansas. Lifting the embargo on agriculture provisions will benefit our economy on a local and regional level and build upon the infrastructure for solid trade relations in this industry.”
Berry continued, "We have been walking a path of failure regarding our policies toward Cuba for nearly five decades. Lifting the embargo is a win-win for both countries. The time has come to put the past behind us, and begin rebuilding relations with Cuba.
Prior to the embargo, the U.S. accounted for nearly 70% of Cuba's international trade. In 2000 under the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act, the U.S. began to allow the limited sale of agricultural and medical exports to Cuba. By 2004, U.S. agricultural exports to Cuba grew from less than $1 million to $392 million. In 2008, exports to Cuba reached $718 million. Top commodity sales to Cuba currently include poultry, wheat, soybeans, rice and dairy.
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