BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA – USA Rice joined more than 20 USDA cooperators and agricultural organizations at Alimentec 2026, the premier food, beverage, and hospitality trade show in the Andean region, held here last week. The biennial event attracted more than 40,000 visitors from across the region, providing a valuable platform to connect with food industry professionals, importers, retailers, foodservice operators, and consumers.
The United States section officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the USA Pavilion, where Minister Counselor Ann Hardman welcomed exhibitors and attendees with encouraging remarks highlighting the importance of agricultural trade partnerships between the United States and Colombia. In a festive World Cup-themed celebration, Hardman cut the ribbon to officially open the pavilion before kicking a ceremonial soccer ball into a miniature goal as a trio of drummers energized the crowd.
Strategically located across from the Sabor USA exhibition booth, the USA Rice exhibit welcomed a steady stream of visitors throughout the four-day event. U.S. rice was prominently featured during a cooking demonstration in partnership with Alaska Seafood, where chefs prepared salmon sushi rolls and California rolls using U.S. short grain rice, showcasing the versatility and quality of American rice to attendees.
The exhibit generated strong interest from both trade and consumer audiences, resulting in more than 15 qualified trade leads and numerous discussions with potential buyers and industry stakeholders.
"Alimentec continues to be one of the most important platforms for engaging with the Colombian and broader Andean food industry," said Asiha Grigsby, USA Rice senior director of international promotion for the Western Hemisphere. "The strong interest we received throughout the show demonstrates the growing opportunities for U.S. rice in value-added applications and highlights the importance of maintaining a visible presence in this dynamic market."
On the second evening of the show, USA Rice hosted a reception for trade partners from the Andean region and industry representatives. Grigsby welcomed guests and emphasized the longstanding trade relationship between the United States and the Andean, as well as the importance of continued collaboration to expand opportunities for U.S. rice exports.
She was joined by Agricultural Attaché Colby Branch, who delivered remarks reaffirming USDA's commitment to supporting the U.S. rice industry through future trade promotion activities and market development initiatives throughout the region.
Colombia remains one of the most important markets for U.S. rice in South America and serves as a key gateway to the broader Andean region. With a growing foodservice sector, expanding retail channels, and strong consumer demand for high-quality food products, the market continues to offer significant opportunities for U.S. rice.
“Participation in Alimentec allows USA Rice to strengthen relationships with existing partners, identify new business opportunities, and reinforce the reputation of U.S. rice among influential buyers and consumers throughout the Andean market,” Grigsby said.