NOGALES, AZ - The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) can add another successful event to its books as it wrapped up its Spring Policy Summit. Taking place March 14–15, 2023, the summit brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss key challenges.
“We are delighted with the success of our Spring Policy Summit, which brought together experts from across the industry to discuss critical issues facing the fresh produce industry,” said Lance Jungmeyer, FPAA President. “We look forward to continuing to work with our partners and policymakers to drive progress and promote the growth of the fresh produce industry in North America.”
The event featured a diverse lineup of speakers and panel discussions that focused on topics like food safety, trade agreements, the economic benefits of trade, and reducing transit times for fresh produce shipments. According to a release, the keynote was delivered by Ambassador Doug McKalip, Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the United States Trade Representatives. He shared his insights on U.S.-Mexico trade and the economic importance of the relationship.
Other speakers included Dr. Gary Williams, Emeritus Professor of the Agribusiness Food and Consumer Economics Research Center at Texas A&M University, who addressed the state of the industry and its economic impacts, as well as Diego Ley of Del Campo Supreme, Lic.; Margarita Velez, Sonora Economic Minister; and Lic. Sergio Lugo of AALPUM, who discussed the numerous challenges importers face with timely border crossings and how the industry can work with regulators to address challenges in the supply chain.
State Director for U.S. Senator Mark Kelly, Luis Heredia, reported on the opportunities and challenges in Congress that impact Southern Arizona and the produce industry.
One of the other highlights of the summit was a panel discussion on how the produce industry and USDA can work together to enhance programs like U.S. marketing orders and grade standards. The panel featured a team of experts from USDA, including Heather Pichelman, Associate Deputy Administrator of the Specialty Crop Division; Michelle Sharrow, Director of the Market Development Division; and Ryan Wilson, Director of the Specialty Crops Inspection Division. They were joined by industry leaders Javier Badillo of Fresh International, Jorge Donnadieu of Terra Fresh, and John Pandol of Pandol Brothers.
To read more about the event, click here.
FPAA’s next large event will be its 54th Annual Convention, under the new name and layout, the Southwest International Expo. It will take place November 2–4, 2023, in Tucson, Arizona.
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