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Working to ensure strong demand continues

The CEO of the US Meat Export Federation says developing relationships with key trading partners is critical to demand continuity when there’s uncertainty in the market. Dan Halstrom says the organization operates offices in more than 20 countries globally. “We have a little over 100 staff outside the U.S.,” he says.  “They’re on the ground every day in those markets. They speak the language, know the culture and have relationships with the trade. As do our supplying exporters as well.”

He tells Brownfield exports provide additional value to U.S. beef and pork, and ensuring there aren’t demand disruptions, even during contentious tariff discussions, is the USMEF’s mission. “In this situation it’s just another example of continuing to tell our story, support them where we can through our programs,” he says. 

USMEF works to create new opportunities and develop existing international markets for U.S. red meat products.  In addition to funding from the USDA, it is supported by a coalition of checkoff organizations, including those for beef, pork, lamb, corn, and soybeans.

AUDIO: Dan Halstrom, US Meat Export Federation