Louisiana rice growers are hoping that with Cuban dictator Fidel Castro's decision to step down after almost half a century would help ease trade sanctions and are eyeing the huge potential in rice trade because of the proximity to Cuba.

Experts believe that if Cuba embraces a free-market system, rice sales to the country would greatly increase.

There has been some trade activity between Louisiana and Cuba in recent years. In 2005, then-Gov. Kathleen Blanco headed a controversial trade mission to Havana.

It remains to be seen whether Castro's departure from government activity will affect the attitude of the US government who have consistently opposed easing economic restrictions unless Cuba adopts democratic changes.