USDA-FAS Administrator Whitley to Address USMEF Spring Conference, May 22-24 in Kansas City
There is still time to register to attend USMEF's annual Spring Conference, May 22-24, 2024 at the Westin Crown Center in Kansas City, Mo.
USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) Administrator Daniel Whitley has been added to the list of general session speakers. He was appointed FAS administrator in 2021 after holding several leadership positions at the agency. Whitley joined FAS after starting his career with USDA’s Economic Research Service, focusing on market access issues in the World Trade Organization.
Wednesday's opening general session will also feature Kip Tom, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations for Food and Agriculture, who will update attendees on policies being debated by international organizations and key trade partners, and the potential implications for red meat trade.
Randy Blach, CEO of CattleFax, will provide a detailed update and outlook on cattle numbers and production of beef and other proteins, both domestic and international, along with grain supplies and other key operating costs that impact prices and profitability.
Thursday’s general session features Anne-Marie Roerink, a meat consumer insight expert and author of the Power of Meat report. She will be joined by USMEF staff to compare consumer demand trends in the U.S. and Europe with those in other international markets.
During Friday’s closing session, USMEF’s international staff will present targeted marketing strategies used to build export demand for underutilized cuts around the globe, with a specific focus on the pork loin and beef round.
In addition to the general sessions, 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 membership sector.
Kansas City serves up urban sophistication with Midwestern hospitality. Known as the City of Fountains, it is home to some of the world’s best jazz and barbeque. Country Club Plaza and the Kansas City Power and Light District offer numerous dining, shopping and entertainment options.
