China already stands as Idaho's sixth largest export market for farm products. With nearly one-third of all Idaho ag products headed for export, we simply cannot ignore the market potential in a country that is 1.3 billion consumers strong. A watchful eye will be needed to make sure that this great beginning to a mutually beneficial relationship bears fruit. Just last week, Idahoans came in to talk with me about China's markets for fresh potatoes and seed potatoes, markets that have been non-existent to date. Signs of change exist, but signs aren't enough.
Shipments offer proof.
Potential abounds, but vigilance must reign, Crapo added. While the U.S. must remain concerned about China s military build-up, its human rights record and its record on missile proliferation, opening China to trade and American values is the best way to change these policies.