USDA, USTR name new agricultural trade advisors
Washington Grain Commission CEO Casey Chumrau was appointed to serve on the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee (ATAC) for Trade in Grains, Feed, Oilseeds, and Planting Seeds. This is one of seven agricultural trade advisory committees, which play a crucial role in shaping agricultural trade policies.
“This appointment is not just a personal honor but a significant opportunity for our state’s trade-dependent agriculture industry.” Chumrau said. “By participating in these discussions, I can help address the challenges our growers face and work towards creating a more favorable trade environment that supports their long-term profitability and competitiveness.”
The committees are part of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Trade Representative (USTR). Chumrau was selected through process that evaluates candidates based on their experience, knowledge, and contributions to the agricultural industry. The appointment was announced by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai on August 1. The group of 55 appointed advisors will serve until 2028.
Dalton Henry, vice president of policy for U.S. Wheat Associates (USW), was also named to the ATAC for Trade in Grains, Feed, Oilseeds, and Planting Seeds. The WGC is a member of USW, which is the export market development organization for the U.S. wheat industry. WGC works closely with USW on market development activities promoting Washington’s premiere soft white and other wheat classes internationally.
The appointment highlights Chumrau’s leadership in the agricultural sector and commitment to influencing trade policies that benefit the industry. It also provides an opportunity for Chumrau to collaborate with other industry leaders and policymakers to address key challenges and opportunities in agricultural trade.
The advisory committee system was created by Congress to ensure that U.S. agricultural stakeholders have input and insight into U.S. trade policy and negotiating objectives. The Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee is comprised of senior representatives from across the U.S. agricultural community who advise the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative on overall trade policy matters, while members of the six ATACs provide technical advice and guidance from the perspective of their specific product sectors.
The complete USDA press release is available here: https://fas.usda.gov/newsroom/usda-ustr-name-new-agricultural-trade-advisors-2
A complete roster of members and additional information about the committees is available at www.fas.usda.gov/atacs.