MABA President Highlights Export Strength at Trade Event

By Andi Anderson

Michigan Agribusiness Association (MABA) President Chuck Lippstreu joined state and industry leaders on October 7 for a Farmers for Free Trade media briefing at Michigan Agricultural Commodities (MAC) in Breckenridge to discuss trade, exports, and the importance of maintaining strong market access for Michigan agriculture.

He was joined by MDARD Director Tim Boring, MAC Vice President Robert Geers, and representatives from Farmers for Free Trade. The event was part of FFT’s Motorcade for Trade, aimed at promoting open markets and strengthening export opportunities for U.S. farmers.

Lippstreu emphasized that Michigan’s agriculture sector is thriving thanks to robust exports. “Our state is an export success story,” he said. “Michigan grows crops enjoyed by people on six continents, and we’ve reached record export value multiple times in recent years. Exports underpin so much of our rural economic success.”

Highlighting the economic importance of trade, Lippstreu noted that agriculture is the second-largest economic engine in the state, employing roughly a quarter of Michigan’s workforce.

“The grain industry alone supports around 15,000 jobs and contributes $4.8 billion annually to the state’s economy,” he said. “That’s vital for farmers and rural communities.”

He called for continued prioritization of key markets such as Canada, Mexico, and China, Michigan’s largest trading partners. “We need to maintain and expand existing export destinations,” Lippstreu said. “Fair, open trade ensures that Michigan farmers can market their products worldwide.”

Lippstreu also praised the bipartisan state budget agreement, which continues funding for MDARD programs that support export facilitation. “It’s good for Michigan agriculture and good for exports,” he said, commending lawmakers and Governor Whitmer’s administration for their collaboration.

By maintaining strong trade partnerships and investing in export infrastructure, Lippstreu emphasized, Michigan agriculture can continue to drive rural prosperity and global competitiveness.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski