The third annual America Trades Produce Conference in the US is fast approaching, and promises to be as relevant as the two prior events, according to a press release from event organisers.
Scheduled to take place on 6-8 March at the McAllen, Texas Convention Center, this year the event committee has added a trade expo to the mix.
“With the addition of a new and exciting expo event showcasing fresh in-season product, we are expecting an even stronger turnout this March,” the organisers explained.
As has been the trademark of the event, educational sessions will also take place to encourage direct dialogue between the industry and US and Mexican government officials.
“Last year, we had top officials from FDA and SENASICA, including Mike Taylor and Octavio Carranza,” said John McClung, president of event co-host Texas International Produce Association.
“We expect that some more details of the Food Safety Modernization Act will be public by March, and just how the new law will affect produce crossings at the border will be a major point of discussion.”
The event will also feature receptions and educational sessions on the expo floor in a new and exciting format, organisers said.
“Attendees will have the chance to view Mexican fruits and vegetables and learn a little bit at the same time,” McClung added.
This year’s conference aims to bring together individuals and organisations from throughout the produce supply chain and across international borders to discuss the industry’s hottest topics, political impact of the new administration in Mexico, and other critical topics.
“With the Peña Nieto Administration taking over the reins in Mexico, and potentially some new top leadership within the Obama Administration, we will have a session that gives a preview of how the industry can expect the governments to interact,” noted Lance Jungmeyer, president of event co-host Fresh Produce Association of the Americas.
“With the Tomato War, immigration and various trade issues in the forefront, it is crucial that our governments work together.”
Attendees are expected to include many US and Mexican representatives, including grower-exporters, retailers, processors, allied industry representatives, and city, state, and federal government officials.
In addition the new expo and the traditional speaker programme, organisers explained that attendees can also participate in a joint tour of the Pharr/Reynosa Port of Entry and the Quanta Lab facility.
Throughout the event, several industry awards will also be announced, including:The Packer’s Importer of the Year, The Produce News’ Rising Star and the Produce Business Exporter of the Year award.
The event is co-hosted by the Texas International Produce Association and the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas.
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