The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) led an agricultural trade mission to Vietnam in November, accompanied by Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke and representatives from 12 Idaho businesses and organizations. The trip aimed to strengthen relationships and explore new opportunities for Idaho’s farmers, ranchers, and food processors in the growing Vietnamese market.
According to ISDA, Vietnam is a significant and expanding market for U.S. food and agriculture products. In 2024, Idaho exported $10.5 million worth of goods to Vietnam, with $8.3 million coming from food and agriculture sectors. Dairy products and hay are currently the leading agricultural exports from Idaho to Vietnam in 2025, while the state also seeks growth in cattle genetics, dairy ingredients, wheat, hops, and pulses.
Lt. Gov. Bedke commented on the impact of recent policy changes: “With Vietnam opening its market to U.S. exports under the recent deal negotiated by President Trump, Idaho agriculture is positioned for expansion like never before,” he said. “Idaho’s reputation for high-quality products opened doors throughout the trip, and the conversations we had made clear that Vietnam sees Idaho as a trusted source.”
ISDA Director Chanel Tewalt highlighted the value of such missions: “We are proud to provide a valuable, agriculture-focused trade mission that supports an industry producing some of the highest-quality products in the world,” she said. “This mission gave our ag companies meaningful opportunities to strengthen relationships in the region. The Lt. Governor’s leadership helped open doors at the highest levels, and the conversations we had will support long-term growth for Idaho farmers, ranchers and food processors.”
The delegation included leaders from various sectors who shared their experiences:
Berton Brocke, President of Brocke & Sons said: “I had a great trip with the ISDA team. They put together a great schedule with legitimate companies in my sector. I am currently working with several of these companies to start doing business together. The structure of the meetings and introductions were such that I believe it will lead to long term relationships and many years of business.”
Jeremy Howard, Senior Sales and Marketing Manager at Simplot Animal Sciences remarked: “The recent trade mission proved to be a resounding success for our organization. During the mission, we engaged with influential decision-makers from leading businesses and government entities, fostering valuable connections and strategic partnerships. These discussions have positioned us to advance several key business agreements, marking an important step toward future growth and collaboration.”
Jamey Higham, CEO of Idaho Potato Commission added: “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Lt. Governor Scott Bedke and Director Chanel Tewalt for their leadership in hosting a trade mission to Vietnam. This provided us with a unique opportunity to reevaluate the Vietnamese market for the export of fresh and frozen Idaho potatoes, paving the way for future growth and collaboration. The state of Idaho’s commitment to fostering international trade is truly appreciated.”
Colton Moon, President of Redox Bio-Nutrients LLC noted: “This being Redox Bio-Nutrients’ second trade mission with Lt. Governor Bedke, Director Tewalt, and their staff, Redox finds tremendous value in these trade missions. We were able to meet with valuable potential clients that can bring immediate success to our company, potentially knocking off 2-3 years of the market development process. The Lt. Governor showcased the trading power that Idaho brings to Vietnam and across the world, and Redox was excited to be a part of it. I am looking forward to the next trip and the success that it can bring to Redox and to Idaho.”
Karla Robinson from High Desert Milk stated: “The trade mission to Vietnam was a very successful experience for High Desert Milk… We made some very promising connections to start the process to export to Vietnam.”
Scott Snelders from Dairy West expressed optimism about export growth: “As a representative of Idaho’s dairy farmers… I believe the relationships we built throughout the week in Vietnam will lead to significant growth in exports for Idaho’s dairy processors.”
Cory Kress from Idaho Wheat Commission emphasized ongoing engagement: “It’s always a valuable opportunity… Continually fostering relationships with our overseas customers is key… Most importantly, visits deepened our personal relationships – connecting end users back to Idaho farmers where wheat journeys begin.”
Robert Li from Driscoll Top Hay reported immediate results: “We are grateful… build strong connections and even receive new orders during the trip.”
Oliver Schroeder from Idaho Hop Growers Commission concluded: “Vietnam presents meaningful opportunities… We appreciate ISDA and Lt. Gov. Bedke for championing Idaho farmers…”
Photos documenting activities during this trade mission are available at https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/mqghry9b9nr9f9xv6frpo/AIzZ_NjPK4elIdeDzlBTC2g?rlkey=8j0o7lzrvn7ebnwguykkxbi0v&st=akj0ksnd&dl=0
Idaho maintains an established trade office in Taiwan as part of its strategy supporting long-term agricultural growth across Southeast Asia.
