WASHINGTON, June 8, 2022— Becky Rasdall, Vice President of Trade Policy and International Affairs for the International Dairy Foods Association’s (IDFA), released the following statement today on President Biden’s intent to nominate Doug McKalip as Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR):

“IDFA is pleased with President Biden’s intent to nominate Doug McKalip to serve as USTR’s Chief Agricultural Negotiator. Mr. McKalip has served in the federal government with distinction over several decades and administrations, demonstrating a commitment to furthering the interests of U.S. agriculture and those who produce and market U.S. food and agricultural products. IDFA is confident that, should he be confirmed, Mr. McKalip will work within USTR and the White House to continue to advance market opportunities for U.S. dairy around the world. We strongly urge the U.S. Senate to expedite a hearing to advance his nomination.

“IDFA is encouraged that the Administration is now moving to fill essential agricultural trade positions. Along with the nomination of Alexis Taylor to serve as Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, USDA and the White House are building a strong team focused on advancing export opportunities for U.S. dairy. IDFA congratulates Doug McKalip on his nomination and will be working with key congressional offices to urge his swift confirmation so the dairy industry may have a strong voice in trade policy decisions impacting our global competitiveness.”

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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 3.3 million jobs that generate $41.6 billion in direct wages and $753 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 90 percent 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.

IDFA Staff Contacts

Becky Rasdall

Senior Vice President, Trade and Workforce Policy

Matt Herrick

Executive Vice President, Chief Impact Officer