![Two women and four men sit on a panel discussing the importance of developing overseas agricultural markets.](https://www.wishh.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GenaUSAEDC.jpg)
The American Soybean Association’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health program emphasized the importance of soy exports in international marketing in its engagements with USDA this month. First, WISHH Executive Director Gena Perry participated in a panel for the U.S. Agricultural Export Development Council which included Foreign Agricultural Service Minister Counselor Ellen Luger and FAS Deputy Administrator of Global Programs Mark Slupek. During the discussion, Perry highlighted WISHH’s efforts in developing value chains in emerging international markets that create future trade for U.S. soy. Perry fielded questions from attendees about how WISHH works with its strategic partners on behalf of soybean growers, promoting sustainable projects and expanding market access.
In addition, WISHH farmer leaders and staff met with USDA Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel B. Whitley this week. They provided an update on their recent meetings in Rome, where they emphasized the significance of the farmer’s voice to the Rome-based UN Agencies. The discussion also covered farmer-led trade missions to Cambodia and Ghana, noting how WISHH leverages USDA funds alongside checkoff support to bolster aquaculture and poultry projects, aiming to increase U.S. soy exports. At the conclusion both parties reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing collaboration.
WISHH’s Rome meetings and visit to Ghana were supported by the United Soybean Board. The soybean growers who lead USB support WISHH’s highlighting the versality and protein value of U.S. soy in these markets.