On
January 6, 2025, DATCP hosted a meeting with Robert Hanson, Minister Counselor for
Agricultural Affairs at the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), stationed
at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, China. The meeting brought together leaders
from key industry associations, including the Ginseng Board of Wisconsin, U.S.
Livestock & Genetics Export, Inc., and the National Association of Animal
Breeders, Inc.
Minister Counselor Hanson provided valuable insights into current trade developments, regulatory challenges, and emerging opportunities in China, ensuring that Wisconsin's agricultural producers and exporters remain informed and well-positioned to compete globally. The discussion centered on addressing critical trade policy issues and exploring market access opportunities and challenges related to China. Participants engaged in dialogue on how to strengthen Wisconsin's agricultural exports and navigate the evolving trade landscape in one of the world's largest markets.
DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski emphasized the importance of partnerships between government and industry to advance Wisconsin's agricultural economy.
Seated left to right around the table:
- Robert Kaldunski, President of the Ginseng Board of Wisconsin
- Dr. Martin Sieber, President/CEO of U.S. Livestock Genetics Export, Inc.
- Robert Hanson, Minister Counselor for Agricultural Affairs, USDA Foreign Agricultural Service, U.S. Embassy Beijing, China
- Secretary Randy Romanski, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP)
- Krista Knigge, former Administrator, Division of Agricultural Development, DATCP
- Mark Rhoda-Reis, Bureau Director, Export and Business Development Bureau, DATCP
- Dave Schumacher, Vice President of the Ginseng Board of Wisconsin
Not featured in the photo:
- Jay Weiker, President of the National Association of Animal Breeders, Inc.
DATCP remains committed to fostering collaborations and supporting Wisconsin's agricultural producers as they expand into international markets.