BY JESI MUNGUIA
It is seen as a win for Russian and U.S. agriculture, and the Michigan Farm Bureau is advocating the expansion of foreign trade to increase agricultural markets for the state's ag industry.
Russia is to join the World Trade Organization this fall and if approved, will be part of the permanent normal trade relations.
In pork products alone Michigan farmers would generate an additional 110 million dollars.
Ryan Findlay, national legislative council for Michigan Farm Bureau, said he thinks everybody is pleased with Russia joining the WTO.
"That's a good step for Russia, it's a good step for the global economy and it will be good for Michigan and Michigan farmers. We just need to make sure that congress recognizes that we can normalize the trade relations prior to their joining so that we don't get stuck with some antiquated trade barriers that could go into existence prior to their joining if we don't normalize the trade relations."
Findlay said the trade deal with Russia would increase export of Michigan beef, poultry, pork, apples, cheeses, soybeans and soybean products.
House and Senate committees have approved normalizing trade with Russia, the measure is waiting for full floor votes on both sides of Capitol Hill.