National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF)

Located strategically in Arlington, Virginia, the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) is a pivotal organization in the U.S. dairy industry. Its proximity to Washington, D.C. allows for effective engagement with federal agencies, playing a significant role in shaping critical dairy policies and trade negotiations.

Significant Events and Achievements

NMPF has been a driving force in promoting increased milk consumption across the United States through innovative product development and robust marketing campaigns. The organization is deeply involved in trade negotiations, policy advocacy, and sustainability initiatives, with a focus on organic and natural dairy products and fair trade practices. One of the key initiatives, led by Jaime Castaneda, Executive Vice President for Policy Development and Strategy, is the modernization of Federal Milk Marketing Orders to ensure fair pricing for dairy producers.

Among its notable achievements, NMPF has addressed misleading claims by plant-based beverage companies and expressed concerns over potential trade retaliations from countries like Mexico, Canada, and China. Jim Mulhern, the former President and CEO, was recognized as Industry Person of the Year for his dedication to U.S. dairy farm families and significant contributions to the industry.

Future Plans and Initiatives

NMPF is committed to advancing policies beneficial to dairy farmers, focusing on trade assistance, equitable pricing, and sustainable practices. The federation is actively working to reduce the carbon footprint of dairy farming. It supports the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and has lauded the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry for endorsing legislation aimed at enhancing milk consumption and nutrition among students.

Additionally, NMPF is a strong advocate for promoting U.S. dairy products in Europe and endorses important agricultural legislation such as the Reconciliation Bill. Celebrated victories include renewing the Dairy Margin Coverage program through 2031 and extending clean fuel tax credits. In collaboration with the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC), NMPF signed a Dairy MOU with Taiwan, highlighting the commercial importance of this partnership as emphasized by NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud.

The organization is addressing workforce shortages in the dairy industry through initiatives like the Young Cooperators program, with Chairman Randy Mooney stressing the need for legislative changes in immigration policy. As the new chairman, Brian Rexing is set to lead NMPF in tackling pressing issues such as dairy economics and labor challenges.

Economist William Loux of NMPF noted the sector's expansion with the addition of 235,000 milking cows as part of a strategic initiative. The federation highlights its achievement in shifting focus from tariff negotiations to enhancing production efficiency, while warning that a critical labor shortage could jeopardize $11 billion in U.S. dairy infrastructure investments. Gregg Doud emphasized the potential impact of insufficient labor on the dairy supply chain's efficiency and growth.

NMPF is launching an advocacy campaign to support the passage of vital legislation in the House, aiming to mobilize a broad coalition of dairy supporters, school nutrition advocates, and parents to engage with representatives. Shawna Morris, Executive Vice President, noted Canada's exploitation of loopholes in its dairy trade commitments under the USMCA. The federation reports significant progress in reintroducing whole milk into U.S. schools, remaining optimistic about legislative efforts to include whole milk in the National School Lunch Program, which is seen as a victory for the dairy industry, potentially stabilizing farm-gate prices and supporting farm income.

In its efforts to compete globally, NMPF plans to invest in new processing plant infrastructure by 2026, aiming to rival the EU and New Zealand in global dairy exports. The National Milk Producers Federation emphasizes the need for maintaining economic stability for dairy producers.

Modified: 2025/12/23