Register Now for USMEF Strategic Planning Conference, Nov. 10-12

Registration is now open for the USMEF Strategic Planning Conference, Nov. 10-12 in Carlsbad, Calif. USMEF looks forward to celebrating its 45th anniversary in person with you!

The meeting agenda is full of timely and informative topics. Wednesday's opening general session will feature John Manzella, an author and syndicated columnist widely recognized for his expertise on trade, labor policy and global economic trends.

Thursday's general sessions will focus on key issues affecting red meat production and trade. A panel discussion will detail port congestion, container availability and other ocean transportation challenges, as well as steps being taken to address these issues. Guest speakers include Dr. Noel Hacegaba, deputy executive director of the Port of Long Beach, and longtime transportation journalist Bill Mongelluzzo, trans-Pacific senior editor at Journal of Commerce.

A range of regulatory challenges facing U.S. and European agriculture, including those focused on water, climate, labor and animal welfare, will be addressed in Thursday's second general session, as well as the potential trade impact of these production limitations. Views will also be shared on how very strong global and domestic demand for U.S. red meat contrasts with the situation in Europe. Guest speakers are Christine McCracken, executive director of animal protein with RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness, and Rupert Claxton, senior director of Gira.

In addition, the beef, pork, exporter and feedgrain/oilseed breakouts will provide in-depth discussion on topics relevant to each sector. Registrants are welcome and encouraged to participate in all breakouts regardless of their membership sector.

Friday's closing business session will include market updates from international staff, a review of the USMEF strategic plan and election of USMEF officers.

All sessions will be held at the Park Hyatt Aviara, which features wonderful restaurants, a signature spa, beautiful and spacious guestrooms, a fitness center, pools and an 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed golf course. The quaint beach towns of Carlsbad and Encinitas are a short drive away.

Registration and lodging details are available from the meeting website. Please also review the COVID protocols, which outline requirements and recommendations in place for this meeting.

For questions, please contact Jackie Boubin.