Maryland’s Ag industry is really small, but its exports to the world grew substantially over the past several years, due to currency devaluation no doubt. In 2007, Ag exports grew only slightly but significant gains were made in Asia, where exports grew 65%. Russia is a small market for Maryland, accounting for 0.5% of the state’s Ag exports to the world.In contrast to other markets, MD Ag exports to Russia were flat from 2004 to 2005; then fell in 2006 and 2007.
Over half of Maryland’s agricultural exports to Russia were poultry related. Sales of HS 0207 Poultry Meat And Offal (Chickens, Ducks, Geese, Turkeys And Guineas), Fresh, Chilled Or Frozen totaled only $692,575 and accounted for over 54% of the state’s Ag sales to Russia.
Pretty small on the Ag radar, but you still have to consider that some exports produced in landlocked states may be attributed to Maryland. (Only state business development staff will be able to discern the role that local Ag producers play in these numbers).This sector is where the bulk of Maryland’s loss occurred. It remains to be seen whether this is the result of lower demand on Russia’s part or... Has Maryland lost market share to other U.S. poultry producers?
