The partnership between the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) and the Pan-American Dairy Federation (FEPALE) is intended to enhance communications and information-sharing between the region’s dairy sectors.
It is also expected to provide better coordination and education of governments across the region to ensure international regulations remain science-based, and that opposition is put forth against non-scientific regulations that could disrupt trade in forums such as the World Health Organization, the Codex Alimentarius Commission, the Office of International Epizootics, and others.
Taking proactive steps
USDEC president and CEO Tom Vilsack said it is important for the US dairy industry to take proactive steps to be involved in international discussion about product regulations.
“US milk is the safest and highest quality in the world and this partnership will mutually benefit the United States and Latin America on regulatory issues,” Vilsack said.
A key element of the partnership is the establishment of a forum for members of FEPALE that will focus on standards in the areas of animal health, milk production, quality, sustainability, nutrition and other issues.
‘A strong voice’
Jaime Castaneda, USDEC’s senior vice president, said the partnership will develop and promote a network between the US dairy industry and the dairy industries of Latin America to protect and enhance milk sales through regulatory cooperation as well as policy partnerships.
Dr Ariel Londinsky, general manager of the Pan-American Dairy Federation, said FEPALE is excited about the new opportunity to promote milk products throughout the region.
“World consumption of dairy products continues to increase, and this new partnership will ensure producers have a strong voice when it comes to regulatory issues,” he said.
Training opportunities
The partnership between FEPALE and USDEC is expected to improve the information and knowledge of FEPALE members on issues related to international organizations of importance to the sector.
It will also promote the development of international standards, or scientifically-based guidelines, that support the pre-competitive functioning of global dairy markets.
The agreement will establish, within FEPALE, a "Regulatory Forum,” or "Regulatory Affairs Committee,” to promote, inform and train the members of the Federation on the importance of these issues.