A diverse blend of U.S. red meat importers, processors, traders, retailers an...

A diverse blend of U.S. red meat importers, processors, traders, retailers and restaurant representatives from across the world will come together in one central place at the International Buyers Conference and Product Showcase taking placed during the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) Board of Directors Meeting May 24-26 in Las Vegas, Nev.

Representatives from Japan, Mexico, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, the Association of South-East Asian Nations, the European Union, Russia, Latin America and the Caribbean are already signed up to attend seminars Thursday May 25 to help them understand how U.S. red meat products can fit profitably into their operations.

Paul Clayton, USMEF senior vice president, export services, will explain the process of identifying new value cuts for export, the economic considerations for using each cut and how cutting techniques make each cut adaptable to different cuisines.

“We want meat buyers and foodservice representatives to walk away from the International Buyers Conference feeling knowledgeable and confident in selling, merchandising and utilizing U.S. meat to their customers,” Clayton said.

Kevin Smith, USMEF assistant director, export services, will demonstrate different cutting techniques and the cuts produced will be prepared by USMEF chefs Sabrina Yin (Asian cuisine) and Jose “Pepe” Alonso (Mexican cuisine) for those attending to sample.

"By conducting cutting and cooking demonstrations of U.S. beef and pork, we will show how easily different meat cuts can be adapted and prepared to satisfy a variety of cuisines,” said Smith. “It gives our international customers a chance to see firsthand the versatility of U.S. beef and pork cuts and to experience the superior taste and quality of U.S. products.”

A showcase featuring products from U.S. meat exporters will cap off the day for international buyers by introducing them to U.S. meat suppliers who can show them products and answer any questions.

“Attending the product showcase is especially beneficial for small U.S. meat companies since they can meet potential buyers from many countries without the expense of international travel,” Clayton said.

Keith Nunes, executive director of MEAT&POULTRY magazine, will open the Board of Director’s Meeting Wednesday May 24 with a keynote address on the challenges faced when dealing with media, why it is not enough to rely on others to get your message out and what your company can do to get better coverage in the media.

He will also discuss trends he sees affecting the meat industry in the next decade. Nunes has served as an editor with MEAT&POULTRY magazine for 15 years and has covered many aspects of the meat business in North America.

USMEF Chairman John Bellinger will lead the business session Friday May 26 where updates will be provided by representatives from USDA Foreign Agriculture Service, National Pork Board, Cattlemen’s Beef Board and American Lamb Board.

Conference Registration  – This is the USMEF Board of Director’s meeting information and registration form. Editor’s Note: Media who would like to attend should use this form and write MEDIA next to the organization name to receive complimentary registration.

The U.S. Meat Export Federation is the trade association responsible for developing international markets for the U.S. red meat industry and is funded by USDA, exporting companies, and the beef, pork, lamb, corn, sorghum and soybean checkoff programs.

– USMEF –