Dairy industry prepares for Trump administration

Former Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack’s message to the International Dairy Foods Association’s Dairy Forum was clear — Expect lots of change from the administration of President Donald J. Trump. . By Donna Berry

Tom Vilsack to head U.S. Dairy Export Council

Former U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will join the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) as president and chief executive officer on Feb. 1, according to a press release. USDEC is a non-profit, independent organization that seeks to enhance the global demand for U.S. dairy products and ingredients.

NMPF, USDEC Urge Caution on Blowing up Trade Agreements

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) called on the Trump Administration this afternoon to not retreat from pursuing new trade opportunities in the Pacific Rim, and to protect the long-standing agricultural trade relationship between the United States and Mexico.

Vilsack Has Clear Vision for USDEC Role

On Tuesday, Agriculture Secretary Vilsack offered insights into his new position as CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council. Because the dairy industry relies so heavily on export markets to soak up surplus dairy production and support milk prices, Vilsack has an important role leading the organization most responsible for ensuring strong trade markets for U.S. products. BY Mike Opperman.