The U.S. Department of Agriculture is seeking new members for its trade advisory committees. Members of these committees provide advice to the Secretary of Agriculture and the U.S. Trade Representative based on their experience in international trade. The committees are consulted regularly regarding ongoing negotiations, implementation of existing agreements and other trade issues.

IDFA President and CEO Connie Tipton currently serves on the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for Trade in Animals and Animal Products, along with Mark Davis of Davisco Foods International, Inc., and Neal Schuman of Arthur Schuman, Inc.

Committee members have the opportunity to contribute their expertise and knowledge to government deliberations that influence U.S. trade policies. According to USDA, the vital role that agricultural trade plays in the health of the U.S. economy makes members’ advice and input critically important.

USDA is committed to diversity and encourages nominations of qualified women, minorities and people with disabilities to ensure that committee recommendations take into account the needs of the diverse groups USDA serves. Nominations will be accepted at any time, and appointments will be made periodically, generally for a period of four years.

Visit USDA's trade committees page for details on membership criteria and nomination procedures. For more information, call USDA representatives Steffon Brown or Bob Spitzer at (202) 720-6219 or email them at Steffon.Brown@fas.usda.gov or Bob.Spitzer@fas.usda.gov.