USMEF Spring Conference

Wednesday's opening general session will feature USMEF’s senior staff from the Asia Pacific region – Senior Vice President Joel Haggard and Vice President Jihae Yang – who will discuss emerging issues in key Asian markets, including how removal of many COVID restrictions could provide momentum for the region’s foodservice sector. 

On Thursday, USMEF will examine the state of U.S.-Mexico trade relations with Kenneth Smith Ramos, who served as Mexico´s chief negotiator for the modernization of NAFTA, which led to the signing and ratification of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). He is now a partner at AGON, a consulting firm specializing in competition, regulatory affairs and international trade.    

At Friday’s closing session, former House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson – who oversaw the development of four Farm Bills during his 30 years in Congress – will discuss the challenges lawmakers face as they work to craft an effective, pro-trade Farm Bill over the coming year.

In addition to the general sessions, the Beef, Pork, Exporter and Feedgrain/Oilseed breakouts will provide in-depth discussions on topics relevant to each sector. Registrants are welcome and encouraged to participate in all breakouts regardless of membership sector.