Keep pushing ties with Cuba / FRAZ Francisco Sugar Company
Post# of 250
Louisiana officials put more emphasis recently on what won't change, as they understand the new rules. Official groups, like one from the Lafayette International Center, will continue to try to build ties with Cuban cultural institutions to promote tourism — a mutual profit center.
Caitlin Cain, chief executive officer for the World Trade Center of New Orleans, said Trump’s policy keeps the door open for Louisiana businesses to work with Cuban small businesses, especially those focused on tourism. There’s an opportunity to do things with Airbnb operators, tour group operators and restaurant owners, she said.
Big money, though, is in Strain's department as well: According to the U.S. International Trade Administration, Louisiana did more business with Cuba than any state in 2016, sending over $114.2 million in exports. Much of that trade is in agricultural exports, such as rice, flour and sugar. In contrast, Alabama, the second-biggest trading partner with Cuba, shipped just under $44 million in exports.
http://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/opinio...28cf8.html