More Cotton to Cuba

In March, a shipment of Texas cotton valued at more than $550,000 was exported to Cuba. This contract, negotiated by TriDimension Strategies in Dallas, is great news for our cotton farmers and a hopeful indicator of possibility.

I don’t agree with Cuba’s political philosophy and realize there are very real points of contention between our countries. I do believe that cracking the door to communication can lead to new degrees of understanding. If quality Texas cotton is what opens the door to dialogue, then all the better.

In 2008, I led a delegation of Texas agriculture leaders on the first official state sponsored trade mission from Texas to Cuba in more than 45 years. This shipment of Texas cotton illustrates how we can participate in the Cuban market, creating opportunities for Texas farmers and exporting the principles of our republic, and help secure more Texas jobs.

Request to Change Federal Policy to Enhance Cuban Trade

I have sent a letter to the administration requesting two changes in federal policy that will enhance trade relationships between the U.S. and Cuba. First, a Texas airport should be authorized to provide direct flights between Texas and Cuba. Second, we need to increase opportunities for Cubans to travel to the U.S. for agribusiness, educational opportunities and medical trade purposes.

While I disagree with Cuba’s political philosophy, I believe by expanding relations with our island neighbor, Cubans can see the success of democracy and embrace a free market society, and at the same time, Texans will benefit through job growth. It is important to review our Cuba policy, but its critical Cuban leaders begin reforming their government before the embargo is completely lifted.

Here is a story that recently appeared on KXAN News.