Event Details

Register now to attend USMEF’s annual Strategic Planning Conference, Nov. 9-11 at the new Omni Hotel in Oklahoma City. The Omni Hotel is centrally located, just a short walk from the Bricktown entertainment and dining district. Bricktown is just one of the interesting and eclectic neighborhoods that pay homage to Oklahoma City’s heritage while also showcasing the modern progress of the city.

The meeting agenda is full of timely and informative topics. Wednesday's opening general session will feature Randy Blach, CEO of CattleFax, who will provide a detailed update and outlook on cattle numbers and production of beef and other proteins, both domestic and international, along with grain supplies and other key operating costs that impact prices and profitability. 

Thursday’s general session will focus on Japan, where USMEF’s Tokyo office is celebrating its 45th year. Japan is the highest value market for U.S. red meat exports - taking $2.05 billion in the first half of this year, or more than one-fifth of U.S. export value. Japan’s foodservice industry has been rebounding from COVID and consumer spending on meat is among the world’s highest. U.S. beef and pork face increasing competition in Japan and the yen has plummeted past 20-year lows.  But as a key ally and trade agreement partner, great opportunities lie ahead in Japan, despite these challenges. USMEF Japan has continuously adapted to the dynamic situation while also increasing consumer awareness about the U.S. production process, introducing them to U.S. farmers and ranchers as part of the sustainability story. In this session, you’ll hear USMEF’s latest insights from Japan and details on our current marketing initiatives.  

Friday’s closing business session will feature guest speaker Sharon Bomer Lauritsen, agricultural trade policy consultant with AgTrade Strategies LLC. She will offer analysis of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework and other Biden administration trade initiatives, and share insights on their potential impact on red meat trade. This session will also include election of a new USMEF officer team.

In addition to the general sessions, the Beef, Pork, Exporter and Feedgrain/Oilseed breakouts will provide in-depth discussion on topics relevant to each sector. Registrants are welcome and encouraged to participate in all breakouts regardless of membership sector.
 
Register soon, as the discounted registration fee ends Oct. 12. The hotel reservation deadline is Oct. 14.

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please email John Hinners, senior vice president, industry relations, or call 303-623-6328.