Before the embargo - U.S. agricultural exports to Cuba were worth about $600 million a year - in today’s prices.  Others estimate Cuba is a $1.2 billion market for agricultural exports if the embargo and other trade barriers are lifted. Today on The 21st we explored what an open Cuba would mean for Illinois. Also, how a team of Illinois State University researchers and a turtle are changing STEM education. 

Fresh from a trade trip to Havana, US. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-13) says he has hopes that a group formed to promote trade between Illinois and Cuba will be able to open an office in the island nation.

Agricultural products have for years been exempt from the U.S. embargo put in place in the '60s, but records show in 2008, Illinois exported $66 million in corn and soy to Cuba.