Bringing U.S. red meat to a broader region in Africa is the goal for the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) trade mission this week in Morocco. More opportunities are available with the country participating in a free trade agreement with the U.S.
“Countries like Senegal and Cote d’Ivoire are growing 6.5-7 percent year-on-year in terms of GDP growth. And that offers a very big base in terms of population size and demand,” says Matt Copeland, USMEF Africa Representative.
USMEF participation in the trade mission was made possible through USDA’s new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program or RAPP – funding, which helps red meat exports gain access to emerging markets.
“What they allow us to do is things like getting some samples into these countries,” Copeland says.
He adds that USMEF works with sample systems within the supply chain to work out technical issues before navigating all of the pricing mechanics and choosing final partners.
“We’re privileged to pioneer with USDA FAS in these agribusiness trade missions,” Copeland says. “No doubt they help line our members up for success.”
