USA Rice Attends Grain Trade Conference in Mexico

NUEVO VALLARTA, MEXICO -- USA Rice participated in the 25th annual APPAMEX-NAEGA forum held in Nayarit state last weekend.  APPAMEX is the sister organization of the North American Export Grain Association (NAEGA) and counts among its membership nearly all of the major grain traders, end-user groups, railroad, and logistic companies in Mexico moving product between the U.S. and Mexico.   
 
The primary theme for this year’s forum was the future of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and policies of the incoming administration in Mexico that could impact the future of North American grain trade.
 
Of particular importance to USA Rice were presentations by Melinda Sallyards, Minister Counselor for Agricultural Affairs, U.S. Embassy; Rosaura Castaneda, Chief, International Negotiations Unit, Secretariat of Economy; and Dr. Miguel Garcia Winder, Undersecretary of Agriculture Designate for incoming President Lopez Obrador.
 
Regarding possible new agricultural policies, Dr. Garcia stressed that the incoming government’s focus is on helping the 50 million Mexicans living in poverty while at the same time providing assistance to farmers trying to make a living on small plots of land.  Dr. Garcia also mentioned the election promise from President-Elect Lopez Obrador which listed several products including corn, wheat, dry beans, rice, and dairy, where the government will focus on increasing production.  It is unknown how the new Administration will provide assistance regarding these products but Dr. Garcia did emphasize that the focus is on the small farmer.
 
“U.S. – Mexico agricultural trade is at a critical period as a new NAFTA is being negotiated while at the same time a new Mexican Government with new policy changes will be installed on December 1,” said Sallyards.  “The APPAMEX-NAEGA conference has been an important forum to discuss possible effects on grain trade with Mexico.  Thanks to USA Rice for their participation at this important meeting.”