In a variety of instances, Idaho companies had been trying for four to five years to get meetings with high-level decision makers. The Governor Kempthorne's relationship with Mexico's federal and state governments continues to improve each time he visits Mexico. Governor Kempthorne will lead another mission to Asia October 6-20. The logos have been trade marked for use in the U.S. and Mexico. In an effort to develop consumer awareness and loyalty for New Mexico food and agricultural products, a statewide promotional campaign featuring the TTT marketing logo, billboards, cooperative advertising with retailers, and television spots has been implemented.
Plans are underway to establish New Mexico food sections in numerous grocery stores statewide.
In cooperation with grower organizations and the Santa Fe public schools, a pilot project to establish salad bars featuring fresh local produce has been initiated. NMDA continues to export livestock and agricultural products to Mexico. Cattle, sheep, and horses have been exported primarily to the northern states of Chihuahua and Sonora. In addition a multimillion-dollar contract to supply seed to a Mexican grower's cooperative was signed. In a cooperative effort to address livestock health concerns including Tuberculosis, Brucellosis, Mad Cow and Food and Mouth diseases, NMDA has teamed up with the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association and the New Mexico Livestock Board to establish communication with counterparts in Chihuahua, Mexico.