Background Banner

Register Now for the USMEF Spring Conference, May 20-22 in Oklahoma City

Published: Mar 03, 2026

Registration is now open for the USMEF Spring Conference, May 20-22 at the Omni Hotel in Oklahoma City, Okla.

REGISTER HERE

The meeting agenda is packed with relevant and insightful topics.

Wednesday's opening general session will feature Ricardo Zúñiga, founding partner of Dinámica Americas and an expert on one of the most rapidly growing regions for U.S. red meat exports – Central America.

Fueled by rising incomes, booming tourism, improving infrastructure and duty-free access through the CAFTA-DR trade agreement, red meat demand is soaring in the region. But each nation in Central America has its own unique attributes and challenges, and several are engaged in bilateral trade negotiations with the United States. This session will offer an economic and diplomatic overview of the region and examine issues exporters should be mindful of as their business in Central America expands.

Ricardo Zúñiga

Despite economic and political headwinds, U.S. red meat demand remains exceptionally strong. But on the beef side, it has been difficult to fully capitalize on what should be a prime opportunity due to political scrutiny over affordability, shifting trade rules and lack of access to key markets such as China. During Thursday’s general session, Dr. Derrell Peel and Dr. Nevil Speer will break down the current landscape for U.S. beef and pork, as well as examine the forces shaping consumer demand and how these trends compare with USMEF’s insights from global markets.

USMEF’s international team will also be on hand to discuss market conditions in key regions and detail the creative strategies utilized to boost demand and strengthen partnership engagement.

In addition to the general sessions, the Beef, Pork, Exporter and Feedgrain/Oilseed breakouts will offer detailed discussions on topics pertinent to each sector. All registrants are welcome and encouraged to participate in any breakout session, regardless of their membership sector.

The Omni Hotel is centrally located, just a short walk from the Bricktown entertainment and dining district. Bricktown is just one of the interesting and eclectic neighborhoods that pay homage to Oklahoma City’s heritage while also showcasing the city’s modern amenities.

Register soon: April 22 is the last day to receive the discounted registration rate!

If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please email John Hinners, senior vice president of industry relations, or Jackie Boubin, vice president of operations, or call 303-623-6328.