SUSTA ANNOUNCES PARTICIPATION AT TRADE EVENT IN BERMUDA U.S. Suppliers to Showcase Agricultural Products from South

Online, April 6, 2011 (Newswire.com) - NEW ORLEANS, La. -The Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA) today announced its participation in the 2011 Bermuda Outbound Mission, April 26-30, 2011, which will showcase agricultural products from Southern states to international buyers.

As one of the wealthiest countries in the world, Bermuda's economy is based on tourism and international business, two industries that drive the demand for high-quality food products. During the past five years, U.S. suppliers have doubled their exports to Bermuda, reaching $99 million in revenue in 2009 alone.

"Bermuda has a great need for food products," said Jerry Hingle, executive director of SUSTA. "This event will provide a rare opportunity for Southern U.S. companies to showcase their products and network with buyers. We're pleased that so many companies are interested in this event and look forward to their taking quality products to Bermuda."

Bermuda Outbound Mission participants will benefit from one-on-one meetings with potential buyers in that growing market, in-country transportation, shipping reimbursement up to $500 and hotel accommodations for one participant per company.

"Being so close to our southern region geographically, Bermuda is an attractive market for many of our exporters," said SUSTA deputy director and international marketing director Bernadette Wiltz. "Companies find it very accessible and an ideal target country for a wide variety of food and beverage items."

SUSTA is a non-profit trade development association composed of the Departments of Agriculture of 15 southern states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Since 1973, its programs and services have assisted exporters of high-value food and agricultural products. SUSTA is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), its member states and private companies.

Companies interested in learning more about SUSTA and how it can help grow their businesses can call (504) 568-5986.