WASHINGTON, July 17, 2025—The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) congratulates Dr. Julie Callahan on her nomination to serve as the Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

“There could be no better choice for USTR Chief Agricultural Negotiator than Dr. Julie Callahan,” said IDFA President and CEO, Michael Dykes, D.V.M. “Having known and worked closely with Dr. Callahan for many years, I can attest to her deep understanding of the complex global issues affecting American food and agriculture. She has been a fierce and reliable ally for the U.S. dairy industry with a long-standing commitment to U.S. farmers, producers, and exporters. I have no doubt that her leadership, integrity, and professionalism will continue to drive U.S. agricultural prosperity. IDFA supports Dr. Callahan as the next USTR Chief Agricultural Negotiator and urges the Senate to swiftly confirm her nomination. We look forward to the many positive impacts of her expertise on future negotiations.”

Callahan, who is presently the Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Agricultural Affairs and Commodity policy, has also served within the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Her nomination will now be sent to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

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The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), Washington, D.C., represents the nation’s dairy manufacturing and marketing industry, which supports more than 3 million jobs that generate $198 billion in wages and $779 billion in overall economic impact. IDFA’s diverse membership ranges from multinational organizations to single-plant companies, from dairy companies and cooperatives to food retailers and suppliers, all on the cutting edge of innovation and sustainable business practices. Together, they represent most of the milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt and cultured products, and dairy ingredients produced and marketed in the United States and sold throughout the world. Delicious, safe and nutritious, dairy foods offer unparalleled health and consumer benefits to people of all ages.