NOGALES, AZ – The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) is making preparations for its upcoming Spring Policy Summit next month, and wants industry members to look forward to the many informative discussions that will be had at the event.

From March 15-16, 2016, the summit will invite all association members and all relevant players to seek answers to the following issues in the produce industry, according to a press release:

• How are Mexico and Canada responding to the new U.S. food safety regulations? How are these NAFTA countries aligning into the same path and working together to provide a secure food supply with solid systems to satisfy the needs of a growing population?
• How can industry work together with U.S. authorities to facilitate and expedite cross-border trade, including infrastructure improvements and pre-clearance programs?
• What are the threats and opportunities of the Trans Pacific Partnership?
• How can the industry benefit from changes to banking regulations that will allow business to grow, yet still accomplish federal goals to stem illicit activities?

From left to right: Peter O’Driscoll, Equitable Food Initiative, Tim York, Markon, and Matt Mandel, SunFed, at FPAA’s Spring Policy Summit 2015 (Source: Curt Prendergast, Nogales International)

Some of the key players that will be in attendance this year include Mike Taylor, Deputy Commissioner for Foods of FDA; Enrique Sanchez Cruz, Director in Chief of SENASICA; Richard Aesenault, Executive Director of Food Systems of CFIA; Victor Mendez, Deputy Secretary of Federal DOT; and John Halikowski, Director of AZDOT.

Lance Jungmeyer, President, Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA)“This is an exciting and unique opportunity to voice our concerns and hear from the key players,” said FPAA President Lance Jungmeyer. “We are looking forward to the participation of our members as we continue to pursue the strengthening of our industry, each and everyone’s business, and the economic growth of our community.”

Jungmeyer added that participating in the exchange of ideas, suggestions, and concerns regarding these industry issues can only benefit “our overall comprehension and ease the path to compliance in the operations of our business.”

A preliminary agenda from this year’s Spring Policy Summit can be found at the FPAA website, or by clicking here.

Fresh Produce Association of the Americas