But doing business with that country grew increasingly difficult as Vladimir Putin’s Russian government pushed its political ambitions. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is expected to further deteriorate any remaining economic ties.
Washington’s iconic apple crop offers a stark example of this international business roller coaster.
Until a few years ago, Russian consumers paid a premium for large-sized Washington state apples.
That was great for growers who had a hard time selling such big apples in the U.S., said Mark Powers, president of the Northwest Horticultural Council, which represents the Northwest tree fruit industry on public policy issues, such as trade.
“Our Washington state apples and pears were considered a premium
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