Jefferson City, December 24 (RHC-AP) –- In the U.S. state of Missouri, agriculture officials are looking for ways to boost exports to Cuba following President Barack Obama's announcement that he plans to ease trade restrictions with the Caribbean island.

The state's Governor Jay Nixon says he has asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture to explore additional economic opportunities with Cuba. The Missouri governor says he also is asking federal officials about opportunities for trade missions to Cuba involving Missouri business, agriculture and government officials.

The U.S. already exports about $350 million of farm products annually to Cuba, including corn, soybeans and rice. Those exports could surge if the U.S. eases sanctions on financial transactions and allows Cubans to pay for products on credit instead of forcing them to pay cash up front.