Biofuels interests are pleased with final approval of Iowa Governor Terry Branstad as U.S. Ambassador to China by a vote of 82-13 in the Senate.

“While we hate to lose such a passionate supporter for renewable fuels as governor, there are a number of vital trade issues with China that have a major impact on our industry,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Executive Director Monte Shaw. “With over three decades of international trade experience and his personal relationship with the Chinese president dating back just as long, we look forward to working with Ambassador Branstad in his new role to knock down artificial trade barriers between U.S. ethanol and distillers grains and China.”

Branstad is the longest serving governor in history and upon his resignation Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds. “Throughout her tenure as a state senator and Iowa’s Lt. Governor, Kim Reynolds has been a steadfast advocate for renewable fuels,” said Shaw.

The Iowa Biodiesel Board also welcomed Reynolds as Governor. “We have no doubt she will be an extremely capable governor who will continue to care deeply about science, agriculture and biofuels, recognizing the benefits these key industries bring to our state,” said Executive Director Grant Kimberly.