The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas' annual Spring Policy Summit on April 3, 2024, at the Tubac Golf Resort & Spa promises to be a must-attend gathering for industry leaders, policymakers, and experts, focusing on the trade environments of the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With ongoing trade irritants, presidential elections on the horizon for the U.S. and Mexico, and the impending renegotiation of the USMCA, this event will provide critical insights into the future of trade and agriculture.
The summit will kick off with a keynote speech on "US-Mexico Trade – What is the State of Play?" delivered by Andrew I. Rudman, director of the Mexico Institute. Rudman will address the complexities and uncertainties surrounding the context of trade as both countries approach pivotal elections.
The Spring Policy Summit will provide critical insights into the future of trade and agriculture.
The afternoon sessions will explore a variety of pressing topics, including:
- Reducing Impact of Port Disruptions: A panel including representatives from CBP, the Arizona Department of Transportation, U.S. Customhouse Brokers, and representatives of Arizona's Senate offices will discuss strategies to mitigate disruptions at ports due to migrant issues and other emerging concerns.
- Food Safety & Handling Hot Topics: This session will cover the latest developments in traceability implementation, updates from the FDA's Southwest Import District, Canada's use of SENASICA SRRC Certification, and more. Experts from government and industry will share insights that could impact stakeholders.
- DC Update: Garrick Taylor of the Border Trade Alliance and Allison Moore of the FPAA will provide an update on political developments, upcoming regulations, and what to expect shortly from Washington, DC.
- USDA APHIS Updates on Plant Protection and Quarantine Efforts: The Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) will outline their operations at the border, focusing on the role of insect identifiers, scientific reviews of pest risks, and the importation process of fresh produce into the U.S.
- Tomatoes, Trade, and the State of Play: The summit will conclude with a session on the latest updates regarding fresh tomato imports and the Tomato Suspension Agreement, featuring discussions with government and industry leaders fighting to protect U.S. companies importing fresh tomatoes.
The Spring Policy Summit will allow attendees to gain foresight into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in U.S., Mexico and Canada trade and agriculture. The event concludes with a closing cocktail reception where participants can network and discuss the insights gained throughout the event.
For more information:
Lance Jungmeyer
Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
lance@freshfrommexico.com
www.freshfrommexico.com
Allison Moore
Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
amoore@freshfrommexico.com
www.freshfrommexico.com