U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC)
The U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) is a pivotal organization in the dairy industry, dedicated to boosting the global presence of U.S. dairy products. The council is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, and plays a vital role in coordinating international operations.
Financial Indicators
USDEC has achieved remarkable financial success, with U.S. dairy exports reaching over $6 billion annually. Despite a minor 2% decline in exports by October, the value of exports has increased, reflecting strong market demand and favorable pricing conditions. The organization reports an approximate annual growth rate of 10% in volume, with significant contributions from Latin American markets.
Important Events
USDEC actively participates in international trade fairs and exhibitions, crucial for connecting with global food producers and expanding market access. Recently, U.S. dairy products, particularly cheese, have gained substantial traction in Asia and the Middle East. In March, dairy export volumes saw a significant increase, reaching the highest levels in over two years, attributed to competitive pricing and improved domestic milk production.
Company Plans
Looking forward, USDEC plans to strengthen its presence in rapidly growing markets, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. The council aims to leverage digital outreach initiatives and implement market penetration strategies to meet the rising demand for U.S. dairy products. USDEC is also committed to promoting sustainability and innovation in dairy production to enhance the global appeal of U.S. offerings.
Recent Developments
USDEC is actively advocating for reciprocal tariffs to address trade imbalances, particularly with the European Union. The organization is cautious about potential retaliatory tariffs from countries such as Mexico, Canada, and China, which could impact cheese consumption. A notable development is the signing of a landmark Dairy Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Taiwan by USDEC and the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), which President and CEO Krysta Harden describes as a significant step towards expanding U.S. dairy presence in Taiwan. Economist William Loux from USDEC highlighted the addition of 235,000 milking cows, indicating strategic expansion efforts in the milking herd.
The organization was led by Paul Rovey from 2012 to 2019.
Modified: 2025/12/07