International Seminars - World Ag Expo 2011

It seems like food safety scares are “cropping up” with greater frequency – and our trading partners are watching! As foreign governments enact stronger regulations to ensure food safety, what quality assurance practices are being implemented in the U.S. to address the global fears about the food we export? Our panel of experts will discuss Federal and State safety regulations, industry-developed standards, postharvest quality assurance practices, and traceability.

Although California is known for producing a wide variety of high quality food products, competition from other producing countries is increasing – and foreign buyers have a greater choice when selecting suppliers. How can you beat the competition and expand your sales by meeting the needs of foreign buyers? Join our panel of representatives from major international supply chains as they discuss what our competitors around the world are doing, and what you need to do to meet the needs of the world’s consumers.

Most California farmers are satisfied in doing what they do best – producing high quality food and agriculture products. But some have expanded their business by marketing their products internationally – thereby enjoying greater returns and expanded markets. Is the export market in your future? Join our panel of “farmers turned exporters” as they discuss their successful transition from domestic growers to international suppliers.

With President Obama’s recent declaration of “seeking a new beginning” with Cuba, and the Organization of American States looking to invite Cuba back into the fold after a 47 year absence new opportunities are on the horizon. Even under the current trade limitations, Cuba has purchased over $4 billion in agricultural products from the U.S. between 2002 and 2008. But even if the embargo is lifted, is there a market for California’s fruit, nuts and other ag products? And if so, how can California companies prepare today?

Despite years of negotiations and numerous agreements with foreign nations, California agricultural products continue to face strong trade barriers in overseas markets. And even though US trade negotiators have concluded Free Trade Agreements with Korea, Panama and Colombia, these have yet to be approved by Congress and so have not been enacted. Will the new congress approve these Agreements? What other steps is the Federal government taking to improve market access for California ag products? Join Ambassador Islam Siddiqui, Chief Agricultural Trade Negotiator of the U.S. Trade Representative’s office as he discusses current efforts to level the international playing field for American producers, and deliver jobs and economic opportunity.

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