The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) recently brought together industry leaders, experts, and partners for its annual Spring Policy Summit, a two-day event full of conversations about the challenges and opportunities facing the produce industry today.
© FPAA
The summit kicked off with a conversation about social responsibility and how companies are navigating today's shifting trade landscape. Speakers included Virginia Bullington from the Wilson Center's Mexico Institute, Marion Avril of AHIFORES, and Ana Ambrosi from the Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association. The panel was moderated by Georgina Felix, FPAA's director of operations and international affairs, who helped guide the discussion on how trade and worker responsibility are evolving together.
One of the day's highlights was the Tariff Town Hall, hosted in partnership with Farmers for Free Trade. Just before the federal government rolled out new reciprocal tariffs, the panel went live. The lineup featured leaders from across the industry: Sheldon Jones, deputy director of programs at the Arizona Department of Agriculture; George Frisvold from the University of Arizona; Luis Ribera of Texas A&M; Skip Hulett from NatureSweet; and John Pandol from Pandol Bros. With Farmers for Free Trade's Brian Kuehl leading the discussion, attendees got a deep dive into what these new tariffs could mean for agriculture and trade.
© FPAA
The summit also dove into what's happening at the U.S.-Mexico border, especially when it comes to regulatory changes and customs processes. From new inspection technologies to ongoing infrastructure improvements, the focus was on keeping the cold chain intact and making sure fresh produce keeps moving quickly and safely.
Day 2 of the summit focused on food safety. The North American Produce Food Safety Summit gave attendees tools and insights to better understand new regulations, prepare for inspections, and strengthen their food safety programs.
"From trade uncertainty to food safety, our members are facing a rapidly changing environment," said FPAA president Lance Jungmeyer. "The Spring Policy Summit is a space to address these changes and work together to keep North American produce trade strong, safe, and sustainable."
As the industry faces new challenges, the FPAA is proud to bring people together to talk through solutions and ensure the future of the fresh produce trade across North America. The Spring Policy Summit is a reminder that by sharing knowledge, the industry can adapt, grow, and keep moving forward.
© FPAA
Industry members that are not yet a member of the FPAA are encouraged to join the growing network of industry leaders working together to protect and advance the future of produce trade.
For more information:
Lance Jungmeyer
Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
lance@freshfrommexico.com
Allison Moore
Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
amoore@freshfrommexico.com
www.freshfrommexico.com