On
April 23, 2026, the International Agribusiness Center (IABC) collaborated with
the Madison International Trade Association (MITA) on the Growing Wisconsin
Cheese Exports Globally program in Milwaukee. Supported in part by Wisconsin
Initiative for Agricultural Exports (WIAE) funding, the event welcomed nearly
60 attendees and highlighted Wisconsin’s cheese export strengths, global market
opportunities, and the partnerships helping Wisconsin companies grow
internationally. The program featured industry, research, and trade
perspectives from Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, Schreiber Foods, the Center for
Dairy Research, and IABC. Thank you to MITA, the Wisconsin Cheese Makers
Association, speakers, partners, and attendees for contributing to a successful
event.
Panel discussion (left to right): Ira Frydman, Bureau Director – Export and Business Development, International Agribusiness Center (IABC), Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) (Moderator); Tom Guerin, Assistant Director, Center for Dairy Research (CDR), University of Wisconsin–Madison; Alfiya Thomas, Vice President of Export Sales, Schreiber Foods; Ben Miller, Chief Operating Officer, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.
Reception highlighted Wisconsin’s artisan cheeses, offering guests a taste of the state’s rich dairy heritage during the networking session.