policy issues

Global Competitiveness Related News

May 2, 2024
FeedGram May 2, 2024
AFIA Responds to Allegations Linking Chicken Litter to HPAI Spread DOL Boosts Overtime Salary Threshold, Expanding Workers' Rights FDA Finalizes VFD Guidance Farm Bill Discussions Begin on Capitol Hill AFIA Members Interested in Exporting to Brazil: Let's Go! Thompson Outlines Vision for the Future of International Market Development Funding US, Taiwan Hold Second Round of Trade Negotiations Ecuador Pushes US on Free Trade Agreement Invest in Professional Development with Feed Industry Institute Register Now for PCQI Training: Hotel Block Closes Wednesday! Advocating for Policy Issues at NAFB Washington Watch 2024 Swine NRC Expert Panel Requests Industry Ingredient Data, Following IFEEDER Recommendation
April 5, 2023
APHIS Has Updated VS Form 16-4
Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal Plant Health Inspection Service has taken action to address a top priority issue for the American Feed Industry Association. The AFIA has been concerned that our ability to export animal-based products would be prohibited under current export certificates if the United States experienced a foreign animal disease outbreak. This proactive work with our government has resulted in APHIS announcing an updated Veterinary Services form 16-4, which will protect the animal food industry's ability to export products in the event of a foreign animal disease outbreak.
January 12, 2023
FeedGram Issue 92, Jan. 12, 2023
This issue includes: AFIA Expands Engagement in Vietnam McCarthy Proves There Can Be a 'Long and Winding Road' to Speakership AFIA Hears What's On Tap at State Legislatures This Session FDA Outlines 2023 Regulatory Agenda, With Implications for Animal Food FDA Publishes Final Guidance on FSVP for Food Importers IPEF Negotiations to Continue in India Next Month No Progress Is Made in Mexico Over GM Corn Ban Chief Ag Negotiator To Be Sworn In Soon US-Taiwan Talks on Trade Deal Resume See You Next Week at AAFCO
November 17, 2022
FeedGram Issue 87, Nov. 17, 2022
In this issue: AFIA's Message to FDA: Modernize Policy to Keep Pace With Animal Nutrition Congress Returns, New Members Start to Organize Another Rail Union Votes Down Agreement Ag Groups Ask Congressional Leadership to Intervene on EPA Pesticide Tensions US, EU Feed Industries Send Supply Chain Recommendations to Agriculture Secretary White House Hones In on US Food, Ag Security Biden Restarts Talks With Chinese President US, Taiwan Officials Discuss Future Trade Opportunities AFIA Webinar Will Explain How to Export Pet Food to Vietnam AFIA, IFEEDER Share Feed Industry's Contributions to Sustainability Initiatives at Summit IFIF Updates Feed Safety E-learning Training Feed Equipment Industry Dives Into Sustainability Mark Your Calendars for Year-End AFIA Legislative and Regulatory Webinar Join Us at AFIA's FREE Feed Education Program
November 10, 2022
FeedGram Issue 86, Nov. 10, 2022
In this issue: Control of Congress Hangs in the Balance Rail Labor Talks Continue Bills Introduced to Increase Funds for Foreign Market Programs Tell FDA to Modernize Its Regulation of Animal Food Ingredient Claims by Nov. 17 PFAS Deadlines Looming With No Consistency Among States FTC Seeks Information on Marketing Aspects AAFCO Schedules IDC Webinar for January AFIA to Hold Meetings at AAFCO AFIA Participating at COP 27 This Week USTR Posts Questions on Section 301 Review Equipment Manufacturers Tackle Sustainability Issues at Annual Conference Sustainable Ag Summit Showcases Feed's Role in Corporate Environmental Goals Cullman Looks Ahead at Issues Impacting Industry in 2023 Who Should Come to the Facility Inspection Package Training by APHIS?
November 3, 2022
FeedGram Issue 85, Nov. 3, 2022
In this issue: IFEEDER-Funded Research at the CLEAR Center Draws Ire of Greenpeace AFIA Submits Pet Food Label Modernization Comments APHIS Proposes Increase in User Fees for Veterinary Services Several Amendments to FSMA Requirements Now in Effect OSHA Initiates Changes to Injury and Illness Reporting Mexican Ban on Biotech Corn Looking More Likely to Impact U.S. Feed Exports AFIA Equine Committee Holds Productive Meeting Is Your Facility Biosecure? See You Next Week at EMC!
October 27, 2022
FeedGram Issue 84, Oct. 27, 2022
In this issue: White House Urged to Intervene as Rail Labor Unions Reject Agreement FDA Must Modernize Animal Food Policy to Reach US Methane Reduction Goals AAFCO Registration Opens; Ingredient Training Course Set for Jan. 16 USTR Dismisses Section 301 Investigation Marketing Committee Keeps Fingers on Pulse of Today's Communications Trends Four International Bodies Unite In One Health Action Plan Pet Food Industry Leaders Speaking at PFC
October 20, 2022
FeedGram Issue 83, Oct. 20, 2022
In this issue: FDA Told Its Regulation of Animal Food Ingredient Claims Must Follow the Science on Animal Nutrition AFIA Urges Congress to Invest in Food and Ag Research Ongoing EPA Review of Formaldehyde Exposure FDA Releases Guidance on Use of Tracers in Feed AFIA Collaborates With EU, USDA on GHG Reductions Industry Stakeholders Convene to Advance Feed Sustainability Join Us for Facility Inspection Package Training by USDA-APHIS
October 13, 2022
FeedGram Issue 82, Oct. 13, 2022
In this issue: IFEEDER Trustees Look Ahead at Driving Forces on Sustainability Rail Strike Threat Back on the Table FDA to Hold Its Listening Session on Claims Next Week DUNS Numbers Required for FDA Facility Registration Kenya Lifts Ban on GM Crops Prop 12 Reaches High Court Don't Miss Out on New Customers at IPPE
October 6, 2022
FeedGram Issue 81, Oct. 6, 2022
In this issue: Industry Stakeholders Convene to Advance Feed Sustainability Lawmakers Funded the Government, Now They Are Off to Campaign USDA to Hold ASF Action Week Oct. 10-14 It's Time to Renew Your Animal Food Facility Registration AFIA International Trade Committee Hears From FAS, AMS Ag Groups Discuss US-Mexico Food Security Concerns, Caution Against Tariff Investigation Mexican Biotech Corn Ban Could Spell Trouble for US, Mexican Economies, Food Insecurity USDA Sustainability Committee Meets the GAP AFIA Pet Food Conference Registration Now Open Registering for APHIS Exporter Training? Don't Forget Your Coupon Code!
September 29, 2022
FeedGram Issue 80, Sept. 29, 2022
In this issue: Hurricane Ian Makes Historic Landfall AFIA Members Carry Feed Industry Issues to the Hill Jury Is Still Out: Will Government Secure Funding This Week? Biden's Trade Nominees Advance Senate Introduces Bill to Increase Foreign Markets Development Reminder: FDA Label Claims Meeting Coming Up Soon International Feed Industry Gathers on Important Issues USTR Releases Negotiating Objectives for IPEF Trade Pillar US, Paraguay Meet on Bilateral Relations Recent EU, UK Trade Mentions White House Holds Nutrition Conference AFIA Pet Food Committee Meets in Arlington IFEEDER Releases 2021-22 Annual Update IPPE: Don't Miss the Sept 30 Early Bird Booth Rate Deadline!
September 22, 2022
FeedGram Issue 79, Sept. 22, 2022
In this issue: IFEEDER, WWF to Host Feed Sustainability Summit Next Week Government Funding Needed Soon to Avoid Shutdown Senators Introduce Bill to Prohibit Government Monitoring of Livestock Emissions G7 Trade Ministers Call for WTO Reform Chinese Ambassador Calls for Deeper Ties On Ag Technology House Discusses U.S.-Taiwan Trade Initiative AFIA Asks USTR to Ensure Kenya Supports Science-based Standards in Trade Discussions AFIA Staff in Rome for International Feed Issues AFIA Board Chair Mike Gauss on Why You Should Come to EMC
September 15, 2022
FeedGram Issue 78, Sept. 15, 2022
In this issue: Breaking News! Rail Labor Agreement Reached Senate Committee to Examine SEC Climate Disclosure Proposal USDA Should Press CVM on Label Claims EPA Looks to Designate PFAS As 'Hazardous' Under Superfund Law USDA Announces Climate-Smart Ag Grants Vilsack Discusses Ongoing Projects at FFAR AAFCO Announces New Executive Director US, 13 Indo-Pacific Nations Take Part in IPEF Ministerial Section 301 Tariffs on Chinese Imports to Remain, For Now US-Kenya Partnership Could Be Marker for Further Trade in Africa AFIA's Constance Cullman Comments on State of US Feed Industry Apply for AFIA's Premix/Ingredient FFY Program Registration Will Soon Open for 2023 IPPE Educational Programs
September 8, 2022
FeedGram Issue 77, Sept. 8, 2022
In this issue: LFS Discusses Big Topics in Big Easy McKalip Nomination Heads to Senate Floor Congress Returns for Fall Activity Colorado State Update ICYMI: FDA to Host Listening Session on Label Claims China Import Potential Not Fully Achieved Congratulations to QLF for Winning Top Industry Award Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Member Webinars on Trade, Sustainability Issues Help Young Leaders Get Started on the Right Foot Through IPPE Program
September 1, 2022
FeedGram Issue 76, Sept. 1, 2022
In this issue: FDA to Discuss Drug Label Claims Issue at October Meeting Congress: Back in Their Home Districts AFIA Discusses Key Policy Priorities with Brownfield Ag News USDA-NASS Surveys Off-farm Grain Storage Operations AFIA Trade Team Needs Your Comments on Potential Kenya Trade Agreement by Friday IFEEDER-WWF Summer Webinar Series Continues Remembering Richard Loomis Why Should You Attend EMC?
July 28, 2022
FeedGram Issue 71, July 28, 2022
In this issue: Remote Regulatory Assessments: What's Expected of Animal Food Facilities? AFIA Supports Freight Rail Shipping Fair Market Act Senate Discusses Ag Trade Nominee California State Update AFIA Committees Meet at AAFCO AAFCO to Host Webinar on Hemp in Feed FDA to Host Webinar on Biennial Food Facility Registrations Annual Organic Oversight and Enforcement Report Now Available AFIA Receives Funds to Conducts Market Assessment in Brazil AFIA Sustainability Committee Discusses National, International Sustainability Initiatives Feed is the Secret Ingredient for Meeting Food Company Sustainability Targets Join Us in New Orleans for the Liquid Feed Symposium
July 21, 2022
FeedGram Issue 70, July 21, 2022
In this issue: Capitol Hill Heats Up with Ingredient Review Actions, Discussions Agricultural Research Programs Need Funding Boost New Bill Will Expand U.S. Brigade of Disease- and Pest-Sniffing Beagles HHS Renews COVID-19 Public Health Emergency APHIS Updates Swine Disease Response Plans AFIA Briefs FAS Staff at Seminar GOP Senators Press USTR Nominee to Change Administration's Course on Trade U.S. and Kenya Pursue Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership Summer Sustainability Web Series Kicks Off Friday Calling All AFIA Member Commercial Dry Feed Manufacturing Facilities: Apply to FFY You Can Still Register for LFS! Register Now for Fall KSU Course
July 7, 2022
FeedGram Issue 68, July 7, 2022
In this issue: FDA Releases Final Guidance on Hazard Analysis and Risk-Based Preventive Controls for Animal Food AFIA Hosts Meetings at AAFCO Lawmakers Urge Against Work Stoppage at West Coast Ports Biden May Lift Tariffs This Month Lawmakers Call on Biden to Ease Tariffs on Trucking and Shipping Parts You Can Now Listen to AFIA's Weekly FeedGram! Engage in Feed System Sustainability Exhibit at IPPE!
June 30, 2022
FeedGram Issue 67, June 30, 2022
In this issue: Enjoy Your Summer Vacation, But Don't Miss Out on Our Fall Fun AFIA Board Continues "Fly-In" Efforts New Bill Aims to Boost US Agricultural Exports AFIA Joins Chorus Calling for Taylor Nomination to Move Quickly NEAFA Discusses FDA's Food Additive Review Policy AFIA Hosts Meetings at AAFCO US, Taiwan Officials Hold First Trade Talks Still No Final Decision on Lifting Tariffs on Chinese Imports AFIA CEO Speaks at Midwest Events IFEEDER, WWF Announce Feed Systems Sustainability Summit, Case Study Opportunity Register Now for AFIA's "How to Import" Webinar
June 23, 2022
FeedGram Issue 66, June 23, 2022
In this issue: EPA Should Encourage Scientific Input, Not Shut It Out Congress Is Getting It Done Before Clocking Out Could Renewing TPA Close Gap on China Competition Bills? Biden Proposes Gas, Diesel Tax Holiday SEC Should Hold on Climate Disclosure Requirements NRCS Feed Management Standard: Valuable Tool for Improving Livestock Efficiencies, Reducing Footprint Reminder: "UNK" Option for FSVP Importers Ending Soon USDA Works to Improve Supply Chain Bottlenecks at US Ports WTO'S 12th Ministerial Included Agricultural Trade Discussions US, Kenya Revisit Trade Talks CBP Issues More Guidance on Uyghur Act Latin American Agricultural Trade Pledge Released Override of NIP Not to Threaten US-UK Trade Talks US to Help Export Ukrainian Grain via Poland AFIA Speaks on Key Policy Priorities on Agri-Pulse Open Mic FII Module 2 is Now Open!
June 16, 2022
FeedGram Issue 65, June 16, 2022
In this issue: Ocean Shipping Reform Bill Sails to President's Desk Appropriations Process Begins USDA Launches 'Protect Our Pigs' Campaign Formaldehyde: A Follow-Up Latin American Countries Agree to "Good Regulatory Practices" USTR Asks for Comments on Taiwan Cullman Speaks at Midwest Dairy Conference AFIA Thanks Outgoing Committee Members See Liquid Feed Friends in the Big Easy
June 9, 2022
FeedGram Issue 64, June 9, 2022
In this issue: They're Baaaack.....EAT-Lancet Rears Its Head AFIA Members: Sign On to Support Ag Trade Nomination Senate Confirms Jacobs-Young for USDA Research Position Delaware State Update Vermont State Update New Resource for Animal Food Producers Affected by Severe Weather Incidents Biden to Nominate USDA Advisor McKalip as USTR Ag Negotiator White House to Focus on Latin America Trade Relations IPEF Reviewing Work Pillars US and Taiwan to Start a Trade Pact UK Seeking Trade Deals with US Reminder: Share Your Company's Sustainability Feedback FII Module 1 Is Now Available!
June 2, 2022
FeedGram Issue 63, June 2, 2022
In this issue: New USDA Framework Pushes Local Food Production, Distribution California Senators Urge Rail Fixes Louisiana State Update New York State Update Ohio State Update FDA Issues Warnings on Animal Food Products with Illegal CBD Claims HHS Withdraws Trump-Era 'Sunset Rule' USDA Increases Funding for HPAI Response Coalition Calls on Biden Administration to Ease Tariff Use ICCF Requests Comments on Identifying and Characterizing Feed Ingredients Document Survey Shows Consumers Acceptance of Bioengineered and Gene-edited Foods Increases with Benefits Messaging FII Spots Are Filling Up! Class Starts Monday Plant Managers: Do Your Employees Need More Training?
May 26, 2022
FeedGram Issue 62, May 26, 2022
In this issue: AFIA Welcomes New Leadership Ukraine Supplemental Spending Louisiana State Update New York State Update FDA Looking to Expand Authority During Investigations Ag Groups Request EPA Formaldehyde IRIS Comment Period Extension USDA Announces Additional Action on Competition in Agriculture In the Works: Developing an Antimicrobial Drug Use Data Repository Biden Names Initial Indo-Pacific Economic Framework?Members China Section 301 Tariffs WTO?Reiterates Commitment to Keeping Food & Ag Markets Free & Open Congress Warns UK of Undermining Good Friday Agreement Taiwan Restrictions on Porcine-origin Products Calling All Members - Ensure We Hear You Have New Employees? Get Them Up to Speed at FII
May 19, 2022
FeedGram Issue 61, May 19, 2022
In this issue: AFIA Board Highlights Industry Issues with US Lawmakers Administration Announces New Crop Production Incentives California State Update Louisiana State Update Oklahoma State Update New York State Update FDA Head Discusses Agency Priorities with AFIA Board Senators Urge Market Access Commitments in Indo-Pacific Talks AFIA Welcomes Nomination of Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs US Pet Food is Poised to Expand in the China Market AFIA Honors Animal Food Industry Champions IFEEDER Board Working to Expand Industry Reach Register Now for LFS Don't Miss AFIA's Emails!
May 12, 2022
FeedGram Issue 60, May 12, 2022
In this issue: It's Now or Never on Maintaining Last Black Sea Shipping Route Ukraine Aid Passes House; Agriculture Ask Not Included AFIA Supports America COMPETES Act Supply Chain Subtitle Louisiana State Update New York State Update FDA Compiles Best Practices to Prevent Drug Carryover Contamination SEC Extends Climate Rule Comment Period to Mid-June APHIS Negotiates Export Protocols for Two New Animal Feed Products Liquid Feed Facility of the Year Applications Close Tomorrow 5 Reasons You Do Not Want To Miss Feed Industry Institute
May 5, 2022
FeedGram Issue 59, May 5, 2022
In this issue: Farm Broadcasters Hear Feed Industry Concerns Additional Ukraine Aid Sought AFIA Members Assist Ingredient Appropriations Request California State Update Maine State Update Formaldehyde Risk Assessment Proceeding We Need Your Help Telling U.S. Feed's Story in China! Biden Administration Will Soon Decide to Extend or End China Tariffs AFIA Promoting US Pet Food on Vietnamese Social Media White House Sets Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health AFIA Thanks Members for Years of Loyalty, Membership 5 Reasons Not To Miss PCQI Training
April 21, 2022
FeedGram Issue 57, April 21, 2022
In this issue: FDA Shares Inspection Expectations for 2022 Appropriations Process Kicking Off Maine State Update Minnesota State Update Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring Report Released Key U.S. Ag Trade Leadership Hear Industry Input Ag Groups Oppose Panama Trade Promotion Agreement Changes IFEEDER, AFIA Staff Visit CLEAR Center What Previous Students Say About FII
April 14, 2022
FeedGram Issue 56, April 14, 2022
In this issue: Food Security Through Feed Resiliency FDA Criticized for Not Prioritizing "Food" House China Competition Bill Conferees Named Louisiana State Update Maine State Update Maryland State Update OSHA Launches National Emphasis Program to Protect Workers from Heat Hazards Vilsack Optimistic About Biotech in Mexico Russia, Belarus Permanent Normal Trade Relations Suspended, Energy and Oil Imports Banned Indo-Pacific Talks Coming Soon Rural Broadband Funding On the Way IFEEDER on TV and Radio AFIA PCQI Training Has Limited Capacity Get Feed Industry Fundamentals With AFIA-KSU Modules
April 7, 2022
FeedGram Issue 55, April 7, 2022
In this issue: Battle at the Front: What Does The Russia-Ukraine War Mean for Your Business? Senate Green Lights Ocean Shipping Bill Senators Grill U.S. Trade Representative on Free Trade Agreements Maine State Update Maryland State Update OSHA Brings Back Electronic Injury and Illness Recordkeeping Proposal New APHIS Resource Tracks HPAI APHIS Celebrates 50 Years We Need Your Help Telling U.S. Feed's Story in China! Webinar on Latest Developments in Budding Insect Industry IFEEDER Examines Impact of GM-free Feed Ad Council Releases Booster Shot PSAs Recommend FII to Feed Industry Newcomers!
March 31, 2022
FeedGram Issue 54, March 31, 2022
In this issue: Taking a Closer Look at the SEC's Proposed Climate Reporting Rule Biden Boosts Ag/Food Safety Funding in 2023 Fiscal Budget Plan Senate Confirms CFTC Commissioners Maine State Update Electronic Logging Device FAQs Updated Legislators Urge Agriculture Take Priority in Indo-Pacific Talks AFIA Takes Part in International Feed Industry Meeting IFEEDER to Release GM-free Feed Study Results ICYMI: AFIA Talks Pet Food Shortages Watch Last Week's Legislative & Regulatory Webinar Why AFIA's PCQI Course is a Great Value
March 24, 2022
FeedGram Issue 53, March 24, 2022
In this issue: "All Ag, All In" Senate Commerce Committee Approves Shipping Rule Changes Louisiana State Update SEC to Focus on Climate Risks in Corporate Financial Reports AAFCO Discusses Modifying Names of Certain "Gluten" Ingredients USDA Partners with Northwest Seaport Alliance to Ease Port Congestion West Coast Ports Should Start Labor Negotiations Now Canada Pacific Railway Reopens House Passed Bill to Revoke Russian "Permanent Normal Trade Relations" Ag Industry a Major Contributor to Nation's Economy Production Compliance Committee Meets Equipment Manufacturers Committee Plans Fall Conference AFIA Invites Industry Newcomers to Feed Industry Institute
March 17, 2022
FeedGram Issue 52, March 17, 2022
In this issue: Dissecting Animal Food Wins in Federal Appropriations Louisiana State Update Maine State Update Massachusetts State Update FDA Issues Guidance on FSMA Rules Subject to 'Enforcement Discretion' USDA Announces Changes to Grants for Fertilizer Production, Climate-Smart Pilot Projects Biden Calls to Revoke Russian "Permanent Normal Trade Relations" White House Withdraws Key Agricultural Trade Nominee USTR Releases 2022 Trade Policy Agenda, 2021 Annual Report Trade Talks With United Kingdom Begin Next Week AFIA's International Trade Committee Meets in San Francisco Liquid Feed Committee Meets Want to Help Animals in Ukraine? Here Are Some Ways Join Us for PCQI Training This Summer
March 10, 2022
FeedGram Issue 51, March 10, 2022
In this issue: Industry Buyers and Sellers Discuss Business Disruptions, Opportunities at PISC Congress Reaches Agreement on Funding FDA Finalizes Guidance on Voluntary Recalls AAFCO Holding Ingredient Definitions Meeting March 22 AFIA Solicits White House's Help on Supply Chain Disruptions AFIA Board Hears from @GHGGuru, Conducts Business IFEEDER Board Approves New Projects to Support Animal Food Industry Marketing Committee Examines Changing Social Media Habits Equine Committee Considers Trade Impact on Ingredients Join Us for AFIA's Legislative and Regulatory Review Webinar
March 3, 2022
FeedGram Issue 50, March 3, 2022
In this issue: Biden Doubles-Down on Fight Against Corporate Monopolies Expect Swift Action on Supreme Court Nominee AFIA Supports CFTC Nominees Entry-level Driver Training Requirements Updated Ag Outlook Forum Highlights Feed Industry's Role in Curbing Emissions USDA-Port of Oakland Closer to Agriculture Export Incentives Donating to Ukraine Relief Efforts? Let Us Know! Aquaculture Committee Meets Join Us for AFIA's Legislative and Regulatory Review Webinar
February 24, 2022
FeedGram Issue 49, Feb. 24, 2022
In this issue: HPAI Strikes Commercial Operations in US California State Update Maryland State Update Maine State Update South Dakota State Update USDA Issues Supply Chain Analysis CISA Cautions Businesses on Increased Threat of Cyberattacks Do You Export Animal-based Animal Feed or Pet Food? (Or Sell to a Customer That Exports?) USTR Reports on China's WTO Compliance Don't Miss Feed Sustainability Session at USDA Forum Last Call to Register for PISC!
February 17, 2022
FeedGram Issue 48, Feb. 17, 2022
In this issue: States Told to Cease and Desist Approving Hemp for Use in Animal Food Appropriations Reconciliation Process to Begin Soon Senate Clears FDA Chief Maine State Update Maryland State Update Michigan State Update Oregon State Update South Dakota State Update AFIA Applauds Telecommunications and Information Administration on Broadband Program OSHA Updates Powered Industrial Trucks Standard AAFCO IDC Call Next Week 'Freedom Convoy' Protests Rattle Trade HPAI Hits Commercial Turkey, Chicken Operations in US Don't Miss AFIA at USDA Forum Represent US Ag in UNFSS Social Media Campaign PISC Registration Rates Increase This Weekend Having Labor Issues? We Want to Know
February 10, 2022
FeedGram Issue 47, Feb. 10, 2022
In this issue: FDA Is Resuming Routine Inspections: Are You Ready? Federal Feed Ingredient Review Process Under Congressional Eye Extension for Government Funding Coming Soon Ocean Shipping Reform Bills See More Action Maine State Update Maryland State Update South Dakota State Update Vermont State Update New Jersey State Update Producing a Climate-Smart Commodity? You Could Be Eligible to Partner with USDA FSIS to Host Salmonella in Poultry Roundtable 2021 Ag Exports Boast Record Levels Phase One Trade Agreement Commitments Canada Updates Feed Regulations Avian Influenza Found in Indiana Commercial Turkey Flock Watch: Gary Huddleston Speaking on Vaccine Mandates on Feedstuffs 365 Last Chance to Book Your PISC Hotel at a Discounted Rate!
February 3, 2022
FeedGram Issue 46, Feb. 3, 2022
In this issue: It's Committee Season - Won't You Join Us? It's February...Almost Feb. 18... House Starts Focusing on Farm Bill Maine State Update USDA Announces Partnership to Ease Port Congestion Rodenticide Changes May Be on the Horizon Apply for an Antimicrobial Stewardship Grant Feed Ingredient Sustainability Topic at Upcoming USDA Forum Another Attack on Animal Ag Antitrust Official Details Focus Make Sales at PISC
January 27, 2022
FeedGram Issue 45, Jan. 27, 2022
In this issue: Back to Business: In-Person IPPE Returns to Atlanta Bipartisan Senate Shipping Reform Bill On Horizon Maine State Update OSHA Withdraws COVID-19 ETS Feed Trucks Stuck at Northern Border New Research Project to Investigate Feed Mill Decontamination in an ASF Outbreak Follow the Protein PACT on Social Interested in Joining an AFIA Committee? Boost Your Brand Recognition with Industry Buyers and Sellers at AFIA's PISC
January 13, 2022
FeedGram Issue 43, Jan. 13, 2022
In this issue: Some COVID-19 ETS Requirements Now In Effect FDA Commissioner Receives Vote Indiana State Update Maine State Update Maryland State Update FDA Releases Reportable Food Registry Data Dashboard Canada Issues Vaccine Mandate for American Cross-border Truck Drivers Effective Jan. 15 New ASF Resources Available Who Will You Meet at PISC?
December 9, 2021
FeedGram Issue 40, Dec. 9, 2021
This issue includes: AFIA Receives Additional Funds to Promote US Feed Products Abroad Government Funded Through Feb. 18 House Passes Shipping Reform Bill FDA Commissioner Nominee to Get Hearing? Label Claims Issue Highlighted in Widely Read D.C. Ag Publication AFIA Requests Tariff Exclusions from USTR Meet Feed Industry Buyers & Sellers on the Golden Coast AFIA-KSU Winter Online Feed Manufacturing Class Open for Registration
December 2, 2021
FeedGram Issue 39, Dec. 2, 2021
This issue includes: OSHA Extends COVID-19 ETS Comment Deadline, No Word on Implementation Dates H.R. 4996 to Receive Vote Will the Federal Government Remain Open Past Friday? USDA Climate Official Receives Senate Nod AAFCO Mid-year Meeting Approaching AFIA, Ag Partners, Offer Supply Chain Relief Recommendations to White House USADEC Meeting Gives Ag Trade Insight China Updates Facility Lists for US Feed Additives, Premix and Compound Feed Products Mexico Needs to Reconfirm Commitment to Ag Biotech AFIA Earns Two MarCom Awards Pet Food Labeling: To Be Human Grade or Not Human Grade?
November 18, 2021
FeedGram Issue 38, Nov. 18, 2021
This issue includes: Raising Our Voice on Feed Sustainability Infrastructure Spending Bill Signed Into Law What's Congress Doing? Appeals Court Temporarily Halts OSHA's Employer Vaccine Mandate AFIA Congratulates FDA Commissioner Nomination CODEX, Antimicrobial Resistance Task Force Comes to a Close Biden Initiates Dialogue With China North American Leaders Meet IFEEDER, Partners Collaborate to Reduce Methane Emissions in Dairy Operations US Makes Climate Commitments at COP Bookmark It: New Website Shares Supply Chain Disruption Stats It's Time to Come Together for Animal Ag Learn How Seasoned Industry Experts Kept Their Businesses Going Amid Disruptions
November 11, 2021
FeedGram Issue 37, Nov. 11, 2021
This issue includes: Are You Prepared for the COVID-19 ETS? House Passes Infrastructure Bill, Funding Broadband and Other Rural Projects Washington State Update Ports Getting Funding and Attention U.S., China Leaders to Meet AFIA Speaking at Sustainable Agriculture Summit Animal Food Equipment Sector Prepares for Emerging Safety Challenges Find Out How Federal Regulations Will Affect Pet Food in 2022
October 28, 2021
FeedGram Issue 35, Oct. 28, 2021
This issue includes: Busy Week for Pet Food Regulation Spending Deals Getting Closer? AFIA Urges Swift Confirmation on CFTC, USTR Nominees Handle with Care: Navigating Religious Exemptions for COVID-19 Vaccination Focus on Cybersecurity Protection USAHA Recognizes Importance of Ingredients OSHA Initiates Rulemaking Process to Protect Workers From Heat Illness It's High Time to Address America's Supply Chain Issues Mexico Will Import US Genetically Modified Corn Dairy Hosts GHG Measurement Symposium to Pursue Net-Zero Emissions Catch Cullman at Feedinfo Summit AFIA Is Now Accepting Applications for Premix/Ingredient FFY Program Beef Up Your Cybersecurity, Or Pay the Ransom
October 21, 2021
FeedGram Issue 34, Oct. 21, 2021
This issue includes: Organizations Push COVID-19 Vaccination in Rural Communities as ETS Looms Negotiations Continue on Social Spending Package More Rural Broadband Money Coming FDA and Stop Foodborne Illness to Co-Host Food Safety Culture Webinar FDA Encourages Food and Ag Workers to Get Vaccinated Against Seasonal Flu and COVID-19 AFIA Submits Comments on Canada Feed Regulatory Framework Modernization More Countries Want "In" on CPTPP AFIA Trade Committee Meets AFIA Webinars on Cybersecurity, ASF, Capitol Hill/Federal Agencies Global Feed Industry Discusses Achieving Net-zero GHG Emissions Targets National Organic Standards Board Holds Annual Meeting Outreach to South America Pet Food Conference Examines Emerging Trends, Current Issues Support the Future of the Feed Industry by Attending EMC
October 14, 2021
FeedGram Issue 33, Oct. 14, 2021
This issue includes: Biden Aims to Relieve Pressure at Ports Short-term Fix to Debt Limit Passes FDA to Hold Food Safety Summit on E-Commerce USDA Releases Climate Change Action Plan Biden Administration Talks with China on Trade Comments Sought on Section 301 Tariffs Happening TODAY: AFIA President and CEO to Discuss Industry's Trade Priorities Belstra Milling Advocates for Industry Register for AFIA Webinars Meet New Customers at IPPE Online, On-Demand Feed Modules Offer Affordable Training
October 7, 2021
FeedGram Issue 32, Oct. 7, 2021
This issue includes: AFIA Board Talks Policy Priorities, Current Issues Government Funded Through Dec. 3 USDA's Vaccine Candidate Successful in Blocking Spread of ASF FDA Commissioner Nomination Close US Renews Trade Talks with China AFIA Cohosts Webinar on Feed Industry Solutions to Reaching Net-zero GHG Emissions Targets IFIF Releases 2020-21 Annual Report Time Is Running Out to Apply to Integrator FFY Program
September 30, 2021
FeedGram Issue 31, Sept. 30, 2021
This issue includes: AFIA, U.S. Government Working to Prevent Entry of African Swine Fever Theme for the Week: The Punt Guidance on Vaccination of Federal Contractors FDA Receives Input on Pet Food Regulations Feed 101 Keeps it Relevant Discussing Animal Food's Role in Sustainability IFIF-FAO Meet on Feed Industry Issues UNFSS Wraps Up with Country Commitments News from IFEEDER Early-bird Registration Rates for EMC End Next Week Do You Have the Latest Feed Manufacturing Technology Manual?
September 23, 2021
FeedGram Issue 29, Sept. 23, 2021
This issue includes: "The People's Summit" Is Here Lot of Talking, Not Much Action Oregon State Update ASF Confirmed in Haiti, AFIA to Hold Webinar Soon AAFCO Calls for Industry to Weigh In on Hemp Products in Animal Food OSHA Initiates Expanded Measures to Protect Workers from Hazards of Extreme Heat APHIS's IRegs: Your Resource for Exporting Animal-Based Products China Asks to Join CPTPP China Extends Retaliatory Tariff Exclusions Contact Your Representatives on Shipping, Port Issues US-EU Feed Industries Welcome Global Methane Pledge Beef and Dairy Production Could Achieve Climate Neutrality by 2050 IFIF Elects New Chair and Board of Directors for 2022-23 Vilsack Warns Ag Companies to Solidify Cybersecurity as Harvest Begins Are You Addressing Food Safety and Biosecurity in Your Facility? IPPE Booth Rates Increase Oct. 1
September 16, 2021
FeedGram Issue 28, Sept. 16, 2021
This issue includes: New US-EU Pledge: Opportunity to Push Label Claims? Government Funding Expires in 14 Days Trouble at the Ports Persist Congress Wrestles with the Reconciliation Package Washington State Update ASF Action Week Ends Friday White House COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates: What Does This Mean For Your Business? USDA Grants Available for Aquaculture Producers, Processors FDA Announces "Winners" in Food Traceability Challenge Agricultural Trade Back in the Spotlight AFIA Talks US Animal Food Products with Vietnamese Businesses US Considers Another Section 301 Investigation into Chinese Subsidies Are You Ready for the UN Food Systems Summit Next Week? Livestock Virtual Forum Seeks to Catalyze Action for Climate and Nutrition Time Is Running Out ? Submit Your FFY Application Today!
August 12, 2021
FeedGram Issue 24, Aug. 12, 2021
This issue includes: Massive Infrastructure Bill Heads to Lower Chamber AFIA Throws Support Behind Bill to Fix US Port Crisis News from the AAFCO Annual Meeting AAFCO Provides Free Access to Ingredient Definitions Chapter FDA Announces Virtual Listening Session on Pet Food Oversight, Regulation APHIS Clamps Down on Dog Imports Due to ASF Risks AFIA Head Talks Chinese Trade Barriers AFIA Member Ag ProVision Advocates the Need for Ag Labor Reform IPPC Calls Climate Crisis "Code Red" for Humanity LFS Hotel Block Closes Monday
July 29, 2021
FeedGram Issue 22, July 29, 2021
This issue includes: ASF Confirmed in Dominican Republic Your Advocacy Efforts Are Making a Difference for Label Claims, Ingredient Reviews Senate Advances INVEST in America Act Disaster Aid in the Works US Needs to Enforce USMCA's Biotech Rules With Mexico Meet With Your Members of Congress in August Changing CDC Guidance on Masks: What Does It Mean for Your Business? FDA Establishes Fee Rates for Next Fiscal Year Submit Input by Aug. 6 on Canada Feed Regulations UNFSS Pre-Summit Draws Mixed Feelings on Current Ag Practices Online Registration for PISC Ends Tomorrow! October AFIA/KSU-500 - Fundamentals of Feed Manufacturing Course Now Open
July 22, 2021
FeedGram Issue 21, July 22, 2021
This issue includes: Putting a Price on the "True" Cost of Food or Pushing an Agenda? Legislation Being Drafted on Export Container Issue Industry Groups Urge Addressing Rail Competition Trump-era Tariffs on China Still in Place, Nearing $100 Billion Codex Supports IFIF's Work New Protein PACT Launches, Needs Your Input! FAO Releases Animal Nutrition Strategies to Reduce Antimicrobials in Animal Production Join the Sustainability Member Interest Group Commercial Dry Facilities ? Apply for FFY! Want to Learn More at the PISC Suppliers Showcase? Are You a Buyer of Ingredients? Have You Ever Attended PISC?
July 1, 2021
FeedGram Issue 18, July 1, 2021
This issue includes: Trade Promotion Authority Expires AFIA Priority Included in Appropriations Markups Webinar Updates Members on OSHA COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard and Updated Guidance FDA Presents to AFIA Members on Exporting to China Registration Now Open for AAFCO's Annual Meeting Liquid Feed Facility of the Year Applications Close Tomorrow Reserve a Private Meeting Room at PISC
June 24, 2021
FeedGram Issue 17, June 24, 2021
This issue includes: Feed Industry Comments on US Supply Chain Issues Appropriations Markup Tomorrow OSHA Updates Summary of COVID-19 Resources House Committee Discusses Challenges in U.S. Maritime System Canada Announces Modernized Animal Feed Regulations AAFCO's Annual Meeting Is Around the Corner Need for Broadband Illustrated In Map Tool Customize Which Emails You Get From AFIA High-Quality Training, High-Quality Instructors Congratulations to Our 30-Year Anniversary Members!
June 17, 2021
FeedGram Issue 16, June 17, 2021
This issue includes: Appropriations Process Sheds Light on Feed Ingredient Regulatory Issues Oregon State Update Rhode Island State Update U.S. Trade Representative Makes European Rounds Liquid Feed Facilities ? Apply to FFY Now! Learn More on Exporting to China on June 28 Celebrate Liquid Feed's Rich History Get Feed Industry Fundamentals With AFIA-KSU Modules
June 10, 2021
FeedGram Issue 15, June 10, 2021
This issue includes: COVID-19 ETS Unveiled for Medical Community House Committee Tackles Transportation Issues Infrastructure Negotiations Continue Delaware State Update What's Next for FDA Inspections? Administration Focuses on Critical Supply Chains EEOC Updates FAQs on Employer Vaccination Policies Protecting Your Business From Ransomware What the World Would Look Like Without Agriculture Tariffs Exporting or Interested in Exporting to China? Take Note! AFIA's CEO Takes Stage at European Forum New Communications Resources Available on UNFSS Apply for the "Buyers to PISC" Scholarship
May 27, 2021
FeedGram Issue 13, May 27 2021
This issue includes: Ingredient Issues Raised in House Committee AFIA Board Members Advocate for the Industry Louisiana State Update FMCSA Extends Expanded Modified Emergency Declaration USDA Releases 90-Day Progress Report on Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry USMCA Leaders Meet USTR Initiates Dispute Settlement Panel Under USMCA China Eyes CPTPP Brazilians Hear Value of US Animal Feed Additives Liquid Feed Facilities ? Apply to FFY Now! Sponsor the PISC Suppliers Showcase
May 20, 2021
FeedGram Issue 12, May 20, 2021
This issue includes: Meat Consumption Under Pressure; North Carolina State Update; FDA Responds on AFIA's Food Additives Letter; FDA Announces New Traceability Competition; VQIP Portal Closes May 31; AFIA Participates in VietShrimp in Vietnam; Feed Facility of the Year Program Re-Launches
May 13, 2021
FeedGram Issue 11, May 13, 2021
This Issue Includes: AFIA Board Holds Annual Meeting, Recognizes Industry Greats; USDA Deputy Secretary Nomination Proceeding; Biden's Trade Agenda in Spotlight; Congress Shows Support for Trans-Pacific Partnership; Delaware State Update; Vermont State Update; EPA, DOT Issue Waivers to Lessen Fuel Shortages; FDA FSVP Industry Portal
October 30, 2020
ICYMI: Member Webinar on Legislative and Regulatory Issues
This week, the American Feed Industry Association held a webcast for members to provide updates from the legislative and regulatory team. It covered a number of topics, including international trade, the Food Safety Modernization Act and upcoming inspections, label claims, 2020 elections and congressional activity and upcoming educational opportunities.
October 30, 2020
Washington Update
Countdown: one day until Halloween and four days until the election. Not to get your hopes up that we might know exactly who will be elected on Nov. 3rd or 4th, but at least we can all rejoice that the political ads will stop and your mailbox will be a little less full of flyers in four days.
October 30, 2020
AFIA International Trade Committee Talks China, Kenya and More
The American Feed Industry Association's International Trade Committee met virtually October 5-7. Chaired by Bradley Getsfred of AFB International, the committee had the opportunity to once again speak about the industry's trade priorities with key government staff.
October 16, 2020
Join Us for AFIA's Legislative and Regulatory Review Webinar
The American Feed Industry Association is hosting an exclusive webinar for AFIA members on Thursday, Oct. 29, at 3:30 p.m. ET. The webinar will provide details on policy issues impacting your businesses and give an update on the latest from the AFIA's legislative and regulatory team.
October 16, 2020
AFIA Meets with Presidential Campaigns on Key Priorities
As Election Day draws closer, the American Feed Industry Association's Executive Committee met with each presidential campaign to learn more about the candidates' priorities for agriculture. These two-way conversations served as a vital way for the AFIA leadership to share the animal food industry's policy priorities, planting the seed for the next administration to tackle them.
October 2, 2020
ICCF Finalizes 'Homogeneity Testing of Feed Ingredients' Guidance Document
The International Cooperation for Convergence of Technical Requirements for the Assessment of Feed Ingredients (ICCF) has finalized its third guidance document on "Homogeneity Testing of Feed Ingredients." The document provides guidance on homogeneity testing approaches and data to be included in a pre-market approval or authorization application for feed ingredients. It is not intended to provide guidance on the testing of the performance of the mixing devices in feed manufacturing facilities.
October 2, 2020
AFIA, American Ag Supports the World Trade Organization
Yesterday, the American Feed Industry Association, alongside more than 60 agricultural industry groups and stakeholders, voiced its support for the World Trade Organization (WTO) and effective reforms to enhance the ability for American agriculture to access foreign markets. The agricultural organizations stress the importance of the transition in WTO leadership and call on U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to support a new director general who can reinvigorate and facilitate needed reforms.
October 2, 2020
AFIA Urges Antimicrobial Resistance Code of Practice to Move Forward at Virtual Codex Meeting
Last week, several American Feed Industry Association staff participated in the virtual Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) meeting. The CAC meets annually to adopt the work of the individual Codex committee meetings that are held the previous year. Due to COVID-19, this year's CAC met online with a limited agenda over the course of five days, bringing together over 600 participants from all over the globe, in various time zones and translation in six languages, to discuss international standard setting.
September 18, 2020
Washington Update
The House and Senate have returned from their shortened summer recess to try to accomplish some unfinished business. First up is funding the government into the new fiscal year, which begins on Oct. 1, and debate on the next coronavirus aid package. With the political nature of everything in our country right now, finding compromise on Capitol Hill is not likely to come easily.
September 4, 2020
New WTO Report Addresses Impact of COVID-19 on Ag Trade
This week, the World Trade Organization released a new report examining the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on world agricultural trade. The report warns that countries are still fighting the pandemic and its repercussions for food supply chains are still unfolding. While there is currently no reason why the ongoing health crisis should turn into a food crisis, disruptions to food supply chains constitute a risk, with governments' trade policy choices likely to determine how the situation evolves.
September 4, 2020
U.S.-China Phase One Agreement- Six Months Into Implementation
Aug. 14, 2020 marked six months since the implementation of the U.S.-China phase one agreement and a lot has happened in this short time. Even with the COVID-19 pandemic putting strain on government staff accessibility and capabilities early on, many of the commitments in the agreement have seen progress, if not full implementation. While the commitment for China to make agricultural purchases from the United States is of great importance, of greater significance is China's ability to make those purchases and to make them consistently, and not just once.
August 21, 2020
Vietnam Holds Trade Potential for AFIA Members
The American Feed Industry Association's trade team addresses members' trade concerns and priorities in several ways. One unique avenue is through market access and development programs funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS) aimed at assessing market opportunities and increasing U.S. market share in foreign countries. Most recently, the AFIA received funding through FAS's Emerging Markets Program (EMP) to complete a market assessment of Vietnam for animal feed and pet food, which came back with exciting results with even bigger implications for members.
May 15, 2020
AFIA Highlights Member Interests During US-UK Trade Negotiations
Virtual trade negotiations between the United States and the United Kingdom started last week, in a promising sign that agriculture could potentially be included in a future trade deal. The American Feed Industry Association shared its optimism for the trade negotiations, but cautioned against putting politics before science.
March 20, 2020
One Step Closer to Trust and Trade with China
Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) cleared another barrier for trade between the United States and China by agreeing to regionalization protocols for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and Newcastle disease (ND). Regionalization allows for countries to recognize a specific area as free from a disease in the event a country experiences an outbreak such as with HPAI and ND. Regionalizing allows for trade and market access to continue safely while the animal disease is managed.
March 20, 2020
Feed Additive, Premix and Compound Feed Facility Registration Process for Export to China Established
Today, the Food and Drug Administration issued a notice that outlines the process U.S. feed additive, premix and compound feed facilities need to take in order to be listed and approved for export to China.
March 20, 2020
AFIA Requests FAS Funding for Increased Trade with Vietnam
This past year, the American Feed Industry Association applied for and was granted Emerging Market Program funds through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agriculture Service (FAS) to complete a market assessment of Vietnam. The AFIA International Trade Committee identified Vietnam as a country of interest in 2019, as it is one of the fastest-growing and steadily increasing economies in Asia. Vietnam's middle class continues to grow, which equates to an increased demand for high-quality milk, meat, and eggs. As demand for protein increases, demand for quality animal feed also increases.
March 20, 2020
Canada Ratifies USMCA, Sending Agreement into Final Phase
Late last week in good news for the animal food industry, Canada ratified the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), maintaining the largest free trade area in the world. The northern country was the last country to ratify the trilateral trade agreement, sending it into its final implementation phase, which the American Feed Industry Association expects will begin in June.
March 13, 2020
Feed Additive, Premix and Compound Feed Facility Registration Process for Export to China Established
Today, the Food and Drug Administration issued a notice that outlines the process U.S. feed additive, premix and compound feed facilities need to take in order to be listed and approved for export to China.
March 6, 2020
UK Outlines Plan for Pursuing US Free Trade Agreement
This week, the United Kingdom published a nearly 200-page document outlining its intentions for moving forward with a free trade agreement with the United States, launching talks between the two countries' leaders in the coming weeks. The American Feed Industry Association is hopeful that the U.K. will reconfirm its commitment to science-based standards and push for removing tariffs and other regulatory barriers that have restricted U.S. animal food manufacturers from fully accessing this important market.
February 21, 2020
Phase One Trade Agreement with China Now in Effect ? Now What?
On Feb. 14, the Phase One Trade Agreement with China went into effect. Since then, the American Feed Industry Association has been tracking subsequent movement by China on meeting their commitments under the agreement. Below is a summary of what we know so far.
February 7, 2020
AFIA Grateful for Secured Future with Animal Food Industry's Largest Trading Partners
The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) thanks President Trump and his administration for their vision of a 21st century trade agreement and their persistence that culminated in President Trump's signing of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) today.
February 7, 2020
Meeting Brings Together International Minds to Discuss Feed Safety
While over 32,000 people attended the International Production & Processing Expo last week in Atlanta, Ga, a group of international feed associations and government regulators met for the 13th annual International Feed Regulators Meeting (IFRM). The IFRM provides an opportunity for regulators and feed industry professionals from across the globe to exchange information and thoughts to increase feed and food safety sustainably.
February 7, 2020
Washington Update
By all accounts, it has been a busy time in Washington. This week, we officially entered election season, President Donald Trump addressed Congress and the nation, we closed the chapter on impeachment and agricultural issues saw some solid progress.
January 24, 2020
Watch Last Week's Informational Webinar on the Phase One Trade Agreement with China
Learn more about the phase one trade agreement with China. The U.S. animal food manufacturing industry faces a number of challenges in this market, including those which have restricted any new U.S. feed additive and premix products to be exported to China since 2011 and those which restrict U.S. feed products with ruminant-origin ingredients and a number of poultry-derived ingredients. This agreement directly addresses these constraints by streamlining and facilitating a facility registration process for feed additives, premixes and compound feed, as well as lifting the poultry and ruminant ban for animal food products.
January 24, 2020
USMCA is a Big Win for the U.S. Animal Food Industry
The American Feed Industry Association congratulates and thanks Congress on the long-awaited passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The U.S. animal food manufacturing industry depends on the free-trade access it enjoys with Canada and Mexico, which has allowed exports of feed ingredients, feed and pet food to more than quadruple since the North American Free Trade Agreement's (NAFTA) implementation, growing from roughly $669 million in 1993 to over $3.2 billion today.
January 24, 2020
Election Year Could Bring Surprises, Small Victories
Last week in Washington proved to be a busy one as the American Feed Industry Association saw success on two major policy priorities, the signing of a phase one trade agreement with China and the Senate's passage of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Both agreements are critically important tools of foreign market access for the U.S. animal food industry, but equally important is the momentum they bring toward finally getting things done in a Congress that has been frustratingly gridlocked.
January 24, 2020
Animal Food Industry Applauds Phase One Trade Agreement with China
The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) commends and congratulates the administration on the signing of a historic phase one trade agreement with China. The U.S. animal food manufacturing industry faces a number of challenges in this market, including those which have restricted any new U.S. feed additive and premix products to be exported to China since 2011 and those which restrict U.S. feed products with ruminant-origin ingredients and a number of poultry-derived ingredients. This agreement directly addresses these constraints by streamlining and facilitating a facility registration process for feed additives, premixes and compound feed, as well as lifting the poultry and ruminant ban for animal food products. AFIA looks forward to working with industry and the appropriate U.S. government agencies to facilitate implementation.
January 10, 2020
USMCA Inching Closer to the Finish Line
Congress returned this week to begin the second session of the 116th Congress. With the return of the House came a new sense of urgency over escalating tensions with Iran and with the Senate, a commitment to ratify the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) as soon as possible. Washington D.C. is feeling the pressure to complete outstanding legislative business, such as the North American agreement, before the election cycle frenzy begins with the Iowa Caucus early next month.
January 10, 2020
Urge Your Senators to Vote for USMCA
Just before the holiday break, the House of Representatives considered and widely adopted implementing legislation for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This week begins the Senate's opportunity to approve the pact. We are very close to the finish line of this critical agreement, but now is the time to remind the Senate that our industry is still waiting on this agreement to be finalized.
January 9, 2020
Urge Your Senators to Vote for USMCA
Just before the holiday break, the House of Representatives considered and widely adopted implementing legislation for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This week begins the Senate's opportunity to approve the pact. We are very close to the finish line of this critical agreement, but now is the time to remind the Senate that our industry is still waiting on this agreement to be finalized.
December 20, 2019
U.S. and China Reach Phase One Trade Agreement
Last week, the United States and China announced they had finally come to an agreement on a phase one trade agreement. While many of the details still remain under wraps, signs point to positive movement and progress for U.S. agriculture and the animal food industry.
December 20, 2019
Big Moves on AFIA Priorities
The past few weeks in Washington have made big waves for agriculture and the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA). Though the House made history by voting to impeach the President this week and while these proceedings continued to capture the headlines and exhaust much of the political energy, significant progress was made on some priority issues for the animal food industry such as a win on appropriations for ingredient approvals, passage of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) by the House and the announcement of a phase-one trade agreement reached with China.
December 20, 2019
AFIA Applauds House Passage of USMCA
The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) congratulates the bi-partisan passage of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) today by the U.S. House of Representatives.
December 6, 2019
AFIA Receives Clarification on Last Week's Statement Regarding China's Poultry Imports
The American Feed Industry Association has received clarification from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) that last week's announcement from China only includes poultry imports for human consumption and does not include other poultry products, such as those used in pet food.
December 6, 2019
Japan's Diet Approves First-Stage Trade Deal with the U.S.
This week, the Japanese Diet approved the first-stage trade deal with the United States, which is expected to be implemented in January 2020. The U.S. and Japan completed their negotiations on this first-stage trade deal earlier this year, which lowers tariffs on agricultural and industrial products, as well as includes a digital agreement.
December 6, 2019
Negotiations on Funding Holding AFIA Priorities Hostage
This week in Washington was another of slow progress for American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) priorities as Congress came back to work following the Thanksgiving holiday.
December 6, 2019
USMCA Needs Our Help
The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) preserves and builds on the critical trade relationships that the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) established nearly 25 years ago. As the number of legislative days left for Congress in 2019 quickly winds down, the agreement has never been closer to being ratified. Now is the time to apply pressure to Congress to finalize the agreement.
November 15, 2019
AFIA Pleased With China's Decision to Resume U.S. Poultry Imports
The American Feed Industry Association is pleased with China's decision to resume imports of U.S. poultry and poultry products. China is a valuable market for the U.S. animal food industry ? for exports of feed, feed ingredients and value-added products such as meat and poultry. With China resuming imports of poultry and poultry ingredients, we will see more feed and feed ingredients used by the U.S. poultry industry.
November 15, 2019
Impeachment Proceedings Take Center Stage, Progress on Legislative Priorities Slows
This week in Washington has been consumed by impeachment hearings, with the legislative process grinding to a halt. The hearings, which went public for the first time Wednesday morning, have stolen much of the oxygen from Capitol Hill, slowing progress on American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) legislative priorities.
November 1, 2019
Key AFIA Legislative Priorities Move Forward
This week, Washington progressed key American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) legislative priorities, despite the House leaving town yesterday for another week of recess.
October 18, 2019
Trade Taking Positive Steps Forward
Within the past two weeks, U.S. trade negotiators have made positive steps in the right direction.
October 4, 2019
AFIA Supports Progress on US-Japan Trade Deal, Eager for Further Trade Discussions
Following the announcement that the United States and Japan have reached a limited trade deal to reduce tariffs on agricultural and industry products and address digital trade issues, the American Feed Industry Association's (AFIA) President and CEO Joel G. Newman issued a statement.
October 4, 2019
Tune in to AFIA's Legislative and Regulatory Review Webinar
The American Feed Industry Association is hosting an exclusive webinar for AFIA members.
October 4, 2019
USMCA's Fate Among Impeachment Discussions
House Democrats are building the foundation to begin the impeachment process for President Trump after revelations from a whistleblower report implicated the president in strong-arming Ukraine into investigating a political opponent. While there is still much fact-finding to be done, the impeachment chatter continues to grow louder by the day.
October 4, 2019
US-Japan Trade Agreement Reached, But Will It Be Enough?
The U.S.-Japan trade agreement is not only a big win for American agriculture, but for President Trump as well, who desperately needs to repair the damage done by an ongoing trade war with China.
October 4, 2019
AFIA Granted Funds to Conduct Market Assessment of Vietnam
The American Feed Industry Association has received funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) under its Emerging Markets Program to conduct a market assessment in Vietnam.
September 20, 2019
NASDA Meeting Addresses Trade, FSMA and Hemp
Out of the many questions posed at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture's (NASDA) annual meeting, perhaps the most controversial was "red or green chile peppers?" NASDA's meeting, held in Albuquerque, N.M., brought together the agriculture industry, several state departments of agriculture and the federal government to address some of the industry's most pressing issues including hemp, climate policy and international trade.
September 20, 2019
USMCA Discussions Continue...But Time Is Running Out
The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has been the talk of agriculture for the last year. Recent discussions between Congress and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) have focused on some key issues Democrats have with the agreement, including labor provisions, environmental concerns, prescription drugs, intellectual property and the total enforcement of the agreement's provisions.
September 20, 2019
Making Progress in China?
Chinese importers have made deals to purchase 256,000 metric tons of U.S. soybeans for the 2019-20 marketing year, with more deals expected in the coming weeks.
September 20, 2019
Japan Agreement Rolls Forward
This week, the White House formally told Congress that it intends to enter into a trade agreement regarding "tariff barriers" with Japan in the coming weeks.
September 6, 2019
Race to the Finish: Congress to Tackle USMCA, Approps and More this Fall
Congress returns on Sept. 9 and is bracing for a busy fall with lawmakers racing to complete a lengthy to-do list of legislative items before the holidays. As the elections approach, there is even more urgency for lawmakers to get big-ticket items out of the way.
September 6, 2019
The U.S. and China Continue with New Tariffs
The month of August further proved that a resolution to the tariff war between the U.S. and China is far from over. With the volatile state of affairs, the U.S. feed industry is unclear about where things stand and if any progress can be made to resolve the longstanding regulatory roadblocks that have inhibited the export of feed and pet food products into the Asian country.
August 23, 2019
A Trade Deal With Japan is Overdue
When President Donald Trump took office in January 2017, he pulled the U.S. out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a major trade agreement between the U.S. and 11 other countries, including Japan. After the United States' withdrawal from this agreement, it could not enter into force. The remaining nations had to negotiate a new trade agreement, called the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, which entered into force last December.
August 9, 2019
AFIA Examining How Latest China Trade Developments Impact Industry
While the month of June ended on a somewhat hopeful note in regard to the ongoing tariff war with China with promises for the two countries to return to the negotiating table and threats of increased tariffs being suspended, in the last week, a number of developments have occurred that have brought the two countries once again at loggerheads.
July 25, 2019
Japan Trade Deal in the Works?
Negotiators from Japan and the United States have met in recent weeks, hoping to strike a deal before the United Nations' General Assembly meeting in September.
July 25, 2019
Trade Discussions to Continue in China
On Wednesday, the White House announced that U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin will travel to Shanghai next week "to continue negotiations aimed at improving the trade relationship between the United States and China."
July 11, 2019
USMCA to the Hill? Not So Fast
The New Democrat Coalition sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Bob Lighthizer warning him and the administration that submitting an implementation bill to Congress before addressing the Democratic Party's concerns with the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement would be a mistake.
July 11, 2019
Canadian Wheat Issue Resurfaces
Sens. Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven, R-N.D., Tina Smith, D-Minn., and Steve Daines, D-Mont., sent a letter to the U.S. Trade Representative requesting a solution to a grain trading issue with Canada.
July 11, 2019
Tensions Thawing Between the US and China?
President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Japan late last month at the G-20 Summit and agreed to resume discussions on a potential trade solution between the two countries.
June 27, 2019
Could a Japan Trade Deal Be on the Way?
Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said a trade deal with Japan could be right around the corner.
June 27, 2019
Light at the End of the Tunnel for USMCA
According to Rep. Earl Blumenauer, D-Ore., chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Congress should be able to ratify the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement by the end of the year.
June 13, 2019
AFIA International Trade Committee Meets at PISC
The American Feed Industry Association's International Trade Committee met on May 14 in conjunction with the Purchasing and Ingredient Suppliers Conference in Orlando, Fla.
June 12, 2019
A Letter from U.S. Food and Agriculture Associations and Companies
Letter addressed to House and Senate leadership urging swift ratification of USMCA from U.S. food and agriculture associations and companies.
June 6, 2019
AFIA/FEFAC MOU Comments
AFIA President and CEO Joel G. Newman's remarks to the European Feed Manufacturers' Federation (FEFAC) following the signing of a memorandum of understanding
June 3, 2019
New Tariffs on China Imports Proposed, AFIA Seeks Input
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) recently published a Federal Register notice proposing a new list of imported products from China to increase tariffs on by an additional 25%. The American Feed Industry Association is seeking input from members on this action and any other aspects of the proposed tariffs by close of business Friday, June 7.
May 31, 2019
ICYMI: This Weeks' Legislative and Regulatory Review
This week, the American Feed Industry Association held a webcast member update with the legislative and regulatory (L&R) team. It covered a number of topics, including African swine fever preparedness and response, a recap of state legislative activities, funding for new ingredients and the latest discussions on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.
May 30, 2019
US, Canada and Mexico Make Slow Progress on Passing USMCA
The White House took a step toward ratification of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) late Thursday by sending a draft statement to Congress that the pact could be coming soon. A "statement of administrative action" begins the 30-day window that must pass before the Trump administration is allowed to submit the full implementing legislation to Congress for consideration.
May 30, 2019
New Tariffs on China Imports Proposed, AFIA Seeks Input
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) recently published a Federal Register notice proposing a new list of imported products from China to increase tariffs on by an additional 25%. The American Feed Industry Association is seeking input from members on this action and any other aspect of the proposed tariffs by close of business Friday, June 7.
May 16, 2019
Timeline of U.S./China Tariff Dispute
Timeline of U.S./China Tariff Dispute
May 16, 2019
New Chinese Tariffs Deal Blow to US Animal Food Exports
The most recent round of negotiations between the U.S. and China concluded last Friday with no indication of when a resolution on tariffs on billions of dollars-worth of goods would be removed. In fact, quite the opposite has happened regarding tariffs between the U.S. and China in the last two weeks.
May 16, 2019
US and Canada Inch Closer to an Agreement
There are signs that the U.S. and Canada are getting closer to an agreement that could clear the way for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to go to Congress.
May 2, 2019
Ag: A Focal Point of Japan?US Trade Discussion
President Donald Trump said he believes trade negotiations with Japan will involve agriculture. "We'll be discussing very strongly agriculture because as the PM [prime minister] knows, Japan puts very massively tariffs on our agriculture," Trump said of the negotiations.
May 2, 2019
Two Steps Forward, One Step Backward on USMCA
On Monday, the Mexican Legislature approved new labor reform legislation as a part of its commitment to the U.S.?Mexico?Canada Agreement (USMCA). The reform is mandated in the USMCA and creates a space for workers to form their own unions and contracts over the next four years.
April 19, 2019
International Trade Commission Releases Report on USMCA
The United States International Trade Commission on April 18 released its assessment of the likely impact of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) if it is ratified and put into force. As anticipated, because the North American Free Trade Agreement already eliminated duties on most agriculture products, the report finds a modest increase in trade for the agriculture industries.
April 19, 2019
Japan and U.S. Begin Trade Talks
On Monday, Japan and the United States began negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement, focusing on tariffs on goods such as agricultural and industrial products. Farmers and ranchers will be watching for any discussion of potential agriculture-focused negotiations.
April 19, 2019
EU Trade Talks Get a Green Light
On Monday, a council representing European Union countries signed an official mandate to allow trade talks with the U.S. to begin, and as expected, the mandate does not include agriculture.
April 5, 2019
Closing the Mexico Border and the Future of USMCA
President Donald Trump eased off his threat earlier in the week to shut down the U.S.-Mexico border, instead giving Mexico a "one-year warning" and threatening to first impose auto tariffs before closing the border.
April 5, 2019
US and China Inch Closer to a Deal
While a comprehensive agreement to end the trade war between the U.S. and China may not be produced this week, significant progress on resolving two major sticking points is generally expected: tariffs and an enforcement mechanism to ensure the Chinese live up to its promises in a pact.
March 22, 2019
ICYMI: Last Weeks' Legislative and Regulatory Review
Last Friday, March 15, the American Feed Industry Association successfully held its first webcast member update with the legislative and regulatory (L&R) team. It covered a number of topics, including ingredient approvals, international trade, Food Safety Modernization Act inspections and the International Organization for Standardization Technical Committee 293 (ISO/TC-293).
March 22, 2019
Good News from Brazil and Progress on China
Wheat growers were thrilled to receive the news that Brazil will establish a 750,000-ton quota for tariff-free wheat imports. The celebration comes as farmers, who have lost export sales after President Donald Trump pulled out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership and slapped duties on major trading partners, prompting retaliation against U.S. farm goods, have dealt with their fair share of headaches.
March 15, 2019
March 2019 Legislative and Regulatory Review
March 15, the American Feed Industry Association held its a webcast member update with the legislative and regulatory (L&R) team. It covered a number of topics, including ingredient approvals, international trade, Food Safety Modernization Act inspections and the International Organization for Standardization Technical Committee 293 (ISO/TC-293).
March 8, 2019
USDA Forum Discusses Ongoing Regulatory, Trade Barriers Facing Ag Community
From negotiating better trade deals to combating African swine fever (ASF) to instilling consumer confidence in the food supply, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's recent 95th Agricultural Outlook Forum tackled many hot topics facing agriculture industry leaders.
March 8, 2019
USMCA Debate Continues
The congressional debate over approval of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) could be the toughest Congress has ever had to deal with. Much of the concern for the USMCA vote stems from the new Members of Congress who have no voting history on free trade agreements.
March 8, 2019
Board Tackles Trade Barriers, Ingredient Approvals on Capitol Hill
This week, the American Feed Industry Association's Board of Directors met in Washington, D.C., to discuss association business and advance a few of the animal food industry's policy priorities. The directors took to Capitol Hill on Wednesday, where they impressed upon Congress the need for the Food and Drug Administration to have the resources it needs to complete timely animal food ingredient reviews, pushed for the ratification of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, and urged a resolution to the trade war with China.
March 4, 2019
March 2019 BOD Pocket Card
Pocket card used at March 2019 AFIA Board of Directors' Hill visits.
March 4, 2019
March 2019 BOD Issue Papers
Issue papers used at March 2019 AFIA Board of Directors meeting.
February 8, 2019
Trump's State of the Union Address Focuses on Trade, Other Policy Issues
On Tuesday, President Donald Trump delivered his second State of the Union address, his first time to a divided Congress. Trump appealed to Congress and the nation for unity and bipartisanship, while pressing his case for new trade agreements, a desperately needed infrastructure package and better border security.
January 25, 2019
AFIA Concerned about Missed Opportunities for Trade with the EU
Last week, the Donald Trump administration released its negotiating objectives for a potential trade agreement with the EU. While the American Feed Industry Association is pleased to see the administration include agriculture in these objectives, the EU has since released its negotiating objectives, which omit agriculture altogether.
January 25, 2019
All Things China
Beijing is under growing pressure to deliver something substantial to the U.S. on improving trade relations, when a high-level Chinese delegation travels to Washington next week. The visit by Chinese Vice Premier Liu He could be a major turning point ahead of the March 1 deadline for reaching a deal.
January 25, 2019
AFIA Calls for Greater Regulatory Harmonization Between the U.S. and Canada
With over $1.4 billion in products exported in 2017, Canada represents the second largest export market for U.S. animal food, but a number of regulatory challenges still remain that limit U.S. animal food products from entering this market.
January 11, 2019
China and the U.S. Resume Trade Discussions
Earlier this week, U.S. and Chinese trade officials wrapped up the latest round of in-person negotiations in Beijing. This came after extending the negotiations to a third day of discussions, indicating that some progress is being made on issues of great importance.
January 11, 2019
European Union Trade Talks Heat Up
The conversation surrounding a trade deal with the European Union has been getting louder for some time, and it has agricultural stakeholders concerned.
January 11, 2019
AFIA Provides New Resource to Help Members Understand Import Requirements for Feed Ingredients
The American Feed Industry Association has developed a new Frequently Asked Questions document for members importing feed and ingredients.
December 14, 2018
Farmers Still Waiting for Second Round of Trade Aid
Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue is still intent on distributing the second tranche of government payments to farmers under the Market Facilitation Plan, but talks are still ongoing with the White House as the administration works to patch trade relations with China and other countries.
December 14, 2018
Could Tensions be Thawing Between the U.S. and China?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported yesterday that China purchased 1.13 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans this week, the ninth-largest daily sale of U.S. soybeans. All indications point toward the U.S. and China finally beginning to work on trade negotiations.
December 14, 2018
AFIA Voices Concerns on Potential U.S.-EU Trade Negotiations
When U.S. negotiations with the EU on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership fell to the wayside at President Donald Trump's command, the feed industry lost hope for addressing market access barriers that continue to restrict products from this very important market.
November 30, 2018
China Trade Deal Possible?
There's a "good possibility" the U.S. and China could reach a deal to end their ongoing trade disputes this week when President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping meet for dinner at the G20 summit, National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow said yesterday.
November 30, 2018
AFIA Voices Concerns on Potential U.S.-Japan Trade Negotiations
When President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement in January 2017, the feed industry lost hope for increasing market share, not just in the Asian region, but specifically in Japan. Now, the American Feed Industry Association is optimistic by the administration's recent actions to move forward with negotiating a trade agreement with Japan and wants to ensure the industry's voice is heard.
November 16, 2018
IFIF-FAO Continue Partnership to Ensure Safe Global Feed, Food Supply
Last week, the International Feed Industry Federation and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) met in Rome to discuss ways to better collaborate on projects aimed at promoting a safe, nutritious and sustainable feed and food supply.
November 2, 2018
AFIA Board Discusses Latest Policy Priorities
On Oct. 18, the American Feed Industry Association's Board of Directors met in Arizona to discuss and review the association's business items and latest legislative and regulatory work. They also recognized Richard Sellers, AFIA's senior vice president of public policy and education, who will be retiring Dec. 31. 
November 2, 2018
More Trade Aid Is on the Way
Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue confirmed that there will be more trade aid coming to farmers being hurt by the ongoing trade war. 
October 19, 2018
AFIA's International Trade Committee Meets with Key Government Agencies
Last week, AFIA's International Trade Committee discussed a variety of market challenges and opportunities for the U.S. animal food industry at its annual fall meeting.
October 5, 2018
NAFTA Has a New Name: USMCA
Trade officials struck a deal late Sunday night for a three-way trade pact to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement, which includes significant changes to dairy import rules. The U.S. ? Mexico ? Canada Agreement (USMCA) preliminary deal marks a major step toward fulfilling one of President Donald Trump's signature campaign promises.
September 21, 2018
China-US Trade Spat Continues
On Monday evening, President Donald Trump slapped tariffs on an additional $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, intensifying the trade war that has already stung many farmers and ranchers who face retaliatory tariffs on their agricultural products.
September 21, 2018
Canadian Trade Talks on NAFTA Continue
Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland returned to Washington this week to resume discussions over a North American Free Trade Agreement 2.0. But, as negotiators work to bring Canada into the two-way trade deal between the United States and Mexico, representatives of U.S. ag groups are quickly reviewing the details of the bilateral agreement, which could potentially replace NAFTA if talks with Canada for a three-way pact fall through.
September 7, 2018
NAFTA Talks Continue
Despite what the calendar says, North American Free Trade Agreement talks are not over yet. President Donald Trump sent a notification letter to Congress on Friday of his intent to sign a new trade agreement with Mexico, and possibly Canada, by the end of November.
August 24, 2018
US-China Trade War Continues
The United States and China's trade relationship may never be the same, even if the trade tensions between the two countries eventually cool off.
August 24, 2018
NAFTA: Is the End in Sight?
Negotiators from the United States and Mexico have been meeting consistently for the past month in an effort to resolve the remaining issues between the two countries in the North American Free Trade Agreement by the end of the month.
August 10, 2018
AFIA Provides Input on Feed Machinery Safety Standards at ISO Meeting
Over the summer, the American Feed Industry Association participated in an International Standards Organization (ISO) meeting that continues the process of seeking input from global feed equipment representatives on international standards for the safety of feed machinery.
August 10, 2018
More Tariffs as Trade War Escalates
On Tuesday, the Trump administration finalized a list of $16 billion in goods from China that will begin facing a 25 percent tariff on Aug. 23.
August 10, 2018
China's Feed Additive and Premix Facility Registration Update
Given the current tariff developments between the United States and China, working level interactions between the two governments have become strained. With that, the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC) is not likely to conduct its systems-based audit of the feed additive and premix industry this year.
August 10, 2018
AFIA Calls on Members to Help Address Concerns from Escalating US, China 'Trade War'
On July 17, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) published a Federal Register notice requesting input on the United States' latest proposed list of Chinese products, valued at $200 billion,that could be subject to an additional 10 percent tariff.
July 27, 2018
AFIA Implores Codex to Follow Procedures that Promote Science-Based Decision-Making
Earlier this month, the head of the American Feed Industry Association spoke before the Codex Alimentarius Commission to defend the processes that enable the commission to move forward with science-based decisions, in light of recent countries' actions to stop progress on veterinary drug products in the approval process.
July 27, 2018
Tariffs Raise Concern for Pet Food Exports
In response to its investigation into China's unfair trading practices, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) in July imposed its first set of tariffs on $34 billion worth of Chinese products. In retaliation, China simultaneously imposed a 25 percent additional tariff on a number of U.S. products, including pet food.
July 27, 2018
USDA Announces Trade Mitigation Plan
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a $12 billion plan this week that would provide temporary relief to farmers and ranchers affected by what they call "illegal trade actions" by other countries, which USDA estimates as an $11 billion impact on the agriculture industry.
July 13, 2018
The US Versus China Trade War Continues
On Tuesday evening, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative said it was ready to tack on 10 percent tariffs to another $200 billion-worth of Chinese imports. There are a number of products on this list that may pose a concern for those that import certain feed ingredients from China. The American Feed Industry Association will be commenting on the proposed tariff list and asks members to provide input by July 17 on which proposed products on the list are of concern and to what extent.
July 13, 2018
AFIA Staff, Committee Members Attend Trade Seminar
Representatives from AFIA's International Trade Committee and staff attended the U.S. Agricultural Export Development Council's annual Attaché Consultations and Seminar this week in Washington, D.C., where they had the opportunity to meet with various U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) Agricultural Attaché posted overseas to discuss market challenges and opportunities for the U.S. animal food industry.
June 29, 2018
NAFTA Renegotiation to Resume in July
While the world's attention has been focused on the United States and China trading tariff threats, several nations, including the European Union, are ready to slap retaliatory tariffs against U.S. imports over U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs. Amid these issues, Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue this week said North American Free Trade Agreement 2.0 negotiations will continue over the summer.
June 29, 2018
Keeping China's Feet to the Fire
At an event this week, Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue told farmers that he realizes their concerns about taking China on in a trade war, but also that the Donald Trump administration needed to follow through with its plans in the country's best interest.
June 29, 2018
AFIA Supports Bill that Requires Congressional Sign-Off on Section 232 Tariffs
In March, President Donald Trump signed executive orders enacting tariffs on steel and aluminum imports under Section 232 actions, sparking retaliation in the form of tariffs from countries such as Mexico, Canada, the EU and China.
June 15, 2018
The US Turns Up the Heat on China
President Donald Trump announced Friday he will move forward with 25 percent tariffs on Chinese technology imports worth roughly $50 billion. The move ramps up trade tensions between the two countries, especially as Chinese government officials have indicated that the country will respond in kind to the American tariffs.
June 15, 2018
NAFTA Future Still Murky
In a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the G7 summit last week, President Donald Trump said he discussed breaking up the North American Free Trade Agreement into two separate deals between the United States and Canada and the United States and Mexico.
June 15, 2018
AFIA Seeks Funds that Support Efforts for Increasing Access to International Markets
Last week, the American Feed Industry Association submitted a Unified Export Strategy to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service, formally requesting international Market Access Program (MAP) funding for 2019. This is AFIA's first time submitting such a request.
June 1, 2018
Trump Administration Doubles Down on Trade Threats
On Thursday, the Donald Trump administration said it will impose new duties on steel and aluminum imports from three key trading partners - the European Union, Canada and Mexico. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said the tariffs fulfill the United States' promise to either reach individual deals with the countries to address national security concerns or face steep repercussions in the form of tariffs. In addition, on Tuesday, the White House announced even more trade restrictions and tariffs on China, ending a sort-of "truce" between the two countries.
June 1, 2018
Mexican Officials Visit U.S. Feed Mill
Last week, Mexican officials visited a United Animal Health feed mill in Kalona, Iowa.
June 1, 2018
NAFTA Talks Stall
Little progress has been made on the most complex issues of the North American Free Trade Agreement, as recent talks between the U.S., Mexico and Canada have shown the United States remains unwilling to offer important concessions to Mexico and Canada.
June 1, 2018
China Takes Aim at US Agriculture
This week, China said it would impose a 25-percent tariff on $50 billion worth of American exports, including many of America's most dominant agricultural commodities, such as soybeans, wheat, corn, beef and orange juice.
May 18, 2018
NAFTA Deal Could Happen This Year
House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., said today there could be some "wiggle room" for the administration to get a North American Free Trade Agreement deal passed in Congress this year if the U.S. International Trade Commission shortens the time it takes to conduct a required economic analysis of any final agreement.
May 4, 2018
NAFTA Deal May be Fast Approaching
U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said Tuesday that the chances of getting a North American Free Trade Agreement passed in Congress this year would shrink if the United States, Mexico and Canada can't reach a deal in the next two weeks. Congress is running out of time on the legislative calendar, as it has much more to do before entering full-time campaign mode.
April 20, 2018
USDA Reopens Comment Period for Proposed Changes to Organic Program's National List
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reopened the public comment period for the proposed amendments to the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances (National List) for the National Organic Program. The additional 30-day comment period will close May 14.
April 20, 2018
China Publishes List of Feed Additives, Premixes Approved for Import
Since 2015, the American Feed Industry Association has been working with the U.S. government to expand access for the feed additives and premix segment and the resulting requirements for export to China. On March 1, China's General Administration for Quality Supervision and Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ), which oversees the country's program for importing and exporting products, published a list of traditionally traded products, clarifying some of the ambiguity around the products that are permitted for import into the country.
April 20, 2018
NAFTA 2.0 On The Horizon?
As the respective trade teams gathered in Washington, D.C., last weekend for ministerial talks, Mexican negotiators said there is an 80 percent chance a new agreement could be in hand by late May, and Canada is praising "good progress."
April 6, 2018
U.S.-China Trade War: Ag Industry Speaks Out & Preps for What's Next
Commodity, producer groups and other industry stakeholders spoke out this week pleading for the White House to dial back its trade war with China in hopes of preserving access to this growing Asian marketplace.
April 6, 2018
KORUS Nears Renegotiation Agreement
U.S. and South Korean leaders have reached a renegotiation agreement on a free trade agreement, at least in principle. For many in agriculture, there was more to lose than gain in the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) renegotiation effort. The United States is the largest supplier of beef to Korea and the second largest pork supplier.
April 6, 2018
NAFTA Talks Evolving
The renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement is entering a new phase of intensive engagement at the top ministerial level, Mexico's chief negotiator Kenneth Smith Ramos tweeted on Tuesday. The last formal negotiating round ended early last month, and it remains unclear whether another official round will be held. Another round had been expected to be held in the Washington area sometime next week, but sources close to the talks have since said that it may be delayed further.
April 6, 2018
Roll-Out of the International Feed Manual Recognized as a Success
"When trade works for more people, alongside giving a boost to the economy, it drives up incomes in poor areas, promotes domestic food security, protects the environment, improves public health and empowers women."
March 23, 2018
White House Offers Temporary Exemptions to Countries for Steel and Aluminum Tariffs
The 25 percent tariffs on steel imports and 10 percent tariffs on aluminum imports, which President Donald Trump announced earlier this month, take effect today. However, on Thursday, White House officials announced that temporary exclusions will apply for Canada, Mexico, South Korea, Europe, Australia, Argentina and Brazil.