LANSING, Michigan — The Michigan Agri-Business Association (MABA) today announced it is joining the growing Michigan Smart Trade Alliance (MISTA) coalition to promote smart and consistent international trade policies. “Michigan agriculture exports nearly $3 billion worth of agricultural and food products annually, with Canada accounting for approximately 43% of that value and another 16% headed to Mexico,” said MABA President Chuck Lippstreu. “Let’s be clear: Export markets for Michigan products are critical for the future of our agriculture sector and our rural economy. For Michigan, market access made possible by the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement remains a top priority because it accounts for nearly 60% of our state’s agricultural export value.” MABA represents more than 280 companies and organizations spanning the agricultural value chain. The organization’s membership includes grain, oilseed and dry edible bean handlers, animal nutrition businesses, retailers and manufacturers of crop inputs, logistics companies, professional services providers and beyond. MABA joins nearly a dozen statewide organizations calling on Congress to enact smart, predictable trade policies that foster business growth and keep costs down for families and small businesses. Lippstreu emphasized the importance of trade for border states like Michigan: For Michigan, Canada is by far the state’s top ag export destination, accounting for around 43% of the state’s total agricultural exports by value in 2024. In 2024, Michigan exported more than $1.25 billion worth of food and agricultural products to Canada. Mexico is Michigan agriculture’s No. 2 export destination and key agricultural industries in Michigan have forged lasting, long-term commercial ties in Mexico. In 2024, Michigan exported approximately $452 million worth of agricultural products to Mexico. MABA joins a growing list of MISTA coalition supporters that also includes: Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association Detroit Regional Chamber MichAuto Michigan Chamber of Commerce Michigan Retailers Midwest Independent Retailers Association Michigan Osteopathic Association Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Midland Business Alliance Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce Southeast Michigan Chamber of Commerce Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber of Commerce MISTA is continuing to grow its coalition. Groups and businesses can get more information online at www.smarttradealliance.com. ###
