U.S. Dairy Export Council: Expanding Horizons in Global Dairy Trade

The U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC), based in Arlington, Virginia, is instrumental in advancing the global footprint of U.S. dairy products. Through its strategic initiatives, the council significantly contributes to the robust representation of the U.S. dairy industry in international markets.

Financial Indicators

USDEC has demonstrated remarkable financial performance, with U.S. dairy exports exceeding $6 billion annually. Although there was a slight 2% decline in export volumes by October, the overall export value rose, driven by strong market demand and favorable pricing dynamics. The organization maintains an impressive annual growth rate of 10% in volume, with Latin American markets playing a crucial role in this expansion.

Important Events

USDEC actively engages in international trade fairs and exhibitions, which are pivotal for establishing connections with global food producers and enhancing market access. U.S. dairy products, especially cheese, have seen increasing popularity in regions such as Asia and the Middle East. In March, the export volumes of U.S. dairy reached their highest in over two years, supported by competitive pricing and improved domestic milk production.

A significant recent development is USDEC's advocacy for reciprocal tariffs to address trade imbalances, particularly concerning the European Union. The organization remains vigilant about potential retaliatory tariffs from key markets like Mexico, Canada, and China. A notable event was the signing of a Dairy Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Taiwan, in collaboration with the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), as highlighted by USDEC President and CEO Krysta Harden. Furthermore, the strategic addition of 235,000 milking cows reflects efforts to expand the milking herd, as noted by economist William Loux from USDEC.

Company Plans

Looking ahead, 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 strategic market penetration to meet the surging global demand for U.S. dairy products. Additionally, USDEC is committed to promoting sustainability and innovation in dairy production.

USDEC, with the support of NMPF, has backed the U.S. Department of State's allocation of up to $100 million to expand the use of dairy in global food aid. The council is diligently working to enhance trade relationships in Latin America and aims to increase dairy consumption across North America while resisting protectionist barriers by building institutional ties with key producer groups.

Leadership and Management

Under the leadership of Paul Rovey from 2012 to 2019, USDEC effectively managed responses to international trade investigations and advocated for stronger enforcement of market-access commitments. Barbara O'Brien's collaboration has also been crucial in reinforcing the global position of U.S. dairy. Krysta Harden, CEO of USDEC, recently participated in a congress held in Medellín, Colombia, underscoring the council's commitment to global engagement.

USDEC has raised concerns about cheese-naming and geographical-indication issues, presenting these during discussions in Mexico City over the review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The council is exploring long-term opportunities for American dairy suppliers in Sub-Saharan Africa, driven by population growth, rising incomes, and the gap between expected dairy demand and local production.

The organization has strongly criticized Mexico's concession to Brussels, emphasizing the need for Mexican authorities to protect market access for both U.S. manufacturers and Mexican producers using common cheese names.

Modified: 2026/08/31