U.S. Beef Grabs Spotlight at Cairo Embassy Event
U.S. beef cuts were freshly prepared for attendees at the Cairo Embassy reception
Egyptian governmental and industry leaders were the audience for a reception hosted recently by the U.S. Agricultural Affairs Office in Cairo, but U.S. beef was the center of attention.
The U.S. Embassy in Cairo was the scene for the 120 people hosted by Agricultural Minister-Counselor Ron Verdonk earlier this month. Guests included Egyptian importers, processors, retailers, hotel and restaurant operators and other business leaders in addition to government officials. USMEF-Egypt also was present, with the support of funding from the Beef Checkoff Program.
The purpose of the gathering was to welcome Minister-Counselor Verdonk to his new post and to foster stronger relations with the Egyptian community, but all of the guests were drawn to the aroma of freshly prepared U.S. beef ribeye, striploin, livers and kidneys. In addition to enjoying samples of the various beef muscle cuts and variety meat, attendees also were provided with information about the U.S. beef industry and the quality and selection of U.S. beef cuts.
“This was an outstanding opportunity to put U.S. beef in front of an influential audience,” said Amr Abd El Gliel, USMEF representative based in Cairo. “Everyone was able to taste and enjoy high-quality beef cuts perfectly prepared, and to take home information on our products and industry.”
The Middle East is the third-largest export market for U.S. beef, and Egypt accounts for the majority of the volume and value of those exports. Through the first two months of 2014, Egypt has purchased 23,064 metric tons (50.8 million pounds) of U.S. beef valued at $24.5 million.