Pillen Leads Trade Delegation to Japan and Philippines

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen led a state trade delegation to Japan and the Philippines as part of a mission to promote Nebraska's agricultural exports. The trip marked the second phase of the state's trade mission to Asia, which began with stops in Osaka, Japan.

In Japan, the Governor and his team met with key buyers of Nebraska beef and pork, including Marudai, a major buyer of Nebraska meat products. They also toured Kinki Flour Milling Company to discuss opportunities for growing Nebraska wheat exports to Japan.

The delegation then traveled to the Philippines, where they met with leaders of Gardenia Bakery, the largest breadmaking company in the country, to promote Nebraska wheat. The Philippines purchased an average of $783 million of U.S. wheat per year from 2021-2025, making it the second-largest export market for American wheat.

Participation in an ethanol promotion roundtable was also a highlight of the trade activities in Manila. State leaders highlighted Nebraska's ability to help Filipino companies meet their country's E10 fuel mandate and move toward adoption of E20 fuel.