US Dairy Export Council

The US Dairy Export Council (USDEC) is a prominent organization within the American dairy industry, dedicated to enhancing the export of U.S. dairy products and supporting favorable trade policies. This organization plays a crucial role in driving growth and addressing international trade challenges faced by the sector.

Key Personnel

Shawna Morris serves as the Executive Vice President at both the National Milk Producers Federation and the US Dairy Export Council. Her leadership is key in navigating the complex trade environments affecting the industry.

Trade Advocacy and Challenges

Under Shawna Morris's guidance, USDEC actively addresses issues such as the exploitation of trade loopholes by Canada under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This involvement underscores USDEC's commitment to ensuring fair trade practices and protecting U.S. dairy export interests.

Export Growth

In January 2026, USDEC reported a significant 12% increase in milk solids equivalent volume, indicating a positive trend in U.S. dairy exports. However, a 5% decrease was noted in June 2026 compared to the same month in the previous year, reflecting the volatility and challenges within the global dairy market. Overall, U.S. dairy exports grew by 9% in milk-solids-equivalent terms during the first six months of 2026.

Strategic Expansion Plans

The US Dairy Export Council is actively targeting expansion in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on developing trade links, improving cold-chain capacity, and collaborating with local partners in countries such as Kenya, Senegal, Ghana, and Ivory Coast.

Cheese Trade Dispute with Mexico

The US Dairy Export Council is engaged in a cheese trade dispute with Mexico. Jaime Castaneda, the executive vice-president, has rejected Mexico's stance on cheese trade practices, highlighting ongoing trade tensions and the council's commitment to defending U.S. dairy interests.

Market Dynamics

USDEC reported that global butter supplies had been increasing for several months and that the U.S. price advantage had narrowed. The council also mentioned that year-on-year butterfat gains would be more difficult through the end of the year.