< p>LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan officials have traveled to Brazil to explore the possibility of exporting apples, dried fruit and other foods or agricultural products to the country.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development's International Marketing Program Manager Jamie Zmitko-Somers made the trip with representatives of several businesses, including BelleHarvest, North Bay Produce and Graceland Fruit.

They met Tuesday with U.S. Department of Agriculture officials and representatives of companies in Brazil to discuss prospects. The Michigan Apple Committee also is part of the effort. Officials planned to visit retail establishments during the trip.

The trade mission is part of a broader effort under Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder to increase exports of agricultural products from Michigan.

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Online:

http://www.michigan.gov/agexport