By Jamie Martin
Arkansas played host to 33 international agricultural attachés from 24 different countries during the 2025 National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) Annual Meeting. Delegates represented regions such as Europe, Asia, North America, and South America, including countries like Brazil, Canada, France, Indonesia, Mexico, and Thailand.
“Arkansas is one of the top farming states and the nation’s leading rice producer,” said Governor Sanders. “Meeting with some of the best and brightest agricultural leaders from around the world was an opportunity to share ideas, strengthen trade, and highlight the role Arkansas farmers play in feeding the world. It’s conversations like these that help farmers enter new markets, help countries reduce dependence on China, and ensure Arkansas agriculture remains a global leader.”
“We were honored to welcome this distinguished group to Arkansas,” said Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward. “This visit provided a valuable opportunity to showcase Arkansas’s farmers, agribusinesses, and research institutions while building stronger connections with international markets.”
The delegation began the week meeting with the governor before touring key agricultural and food industry sites. Visits included Walmart and Tyson Foods headquarters, the Market Center of the Ozarks, and the University of Arkansas. There, the group explored the Freight Farm Project, food science laboratory, Center for Arkansas Farms and Food, Agricultural Experiment Station, and Don Tyson Center for Agricultural Sciences.
They also attended stakeholder discussions at the Arkansas Department of Agriculture in Little Rock and traveled to Isbell Farms to observe rice production and trade opportunities firsthand.
This visit highlighted Arkansas’s diverse agricultural production, cutting-edge research, and commitment to global collaboration. By fostering international partnerships, the state continues to strengthen its influence and expand opportunities in the worldwide agricultural market.
Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo
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