Cuba buys DDGS from U.S. grain producers.

Cuba is importing its first shipment of U.S. distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS) since December 2005.

A shipment of 8,000 metric tons was purchased by Alimport, Cuba's sole food purchasing agency, according to the U.S. Grains Council's Feb. 16 newsletter.

"The United States requires all purchases by Cuba be paid for in advance of shipment," said USGC official Chris Corry. "The Council is pleased to see a U.S. grain co-product making its way into this market."

USGC officers visited Cuba in January 2006 to foster relationships with Alimport and identify areas where technical support is needed, such as in formulating livestock rations.

Details: Chris Corry, Director of International Relations, US Grains Council, 1400 K Street, NW, Suite #1200, Washington, DC 20005. Tel: [phone]. Fax: [phone].