As global supply chains face intensifying pressure from geopolitical tensions, climate variability and shifting consumer demands, agri-food leaders are constantly rethinking their procurement strategies.
At Expana’s Agri-Food Americas event on September 23-24 in Chicago, these themes take center stage in the panel discussion “How Geopolitical Uncertainty, Tariffs, and Trade are Impacting Food & Ag”.
Conflict and policy shifts can destabilize your supply chain and disrupt sourcing. This panel will offer expert insights into international affairs so you can adapt quickly and be an expert within your organization.
In this exclusive sneak peak, we spoke with Fred Gale, Economist for China Agricultural Markets and Former USDA Economist. Gale is a speaker at this year’s event and will offer a sharp perspective on what agri-food executives need to know to adapt to an ever-changing trading landscape.
[Expana] Mr. Gale, US and global trade relations are a major theme of the panel. Which recent shifts have you been observing more closely?
[Fred Gale] Trade tensions are encouraging China to accelerate its hunt for new suppliers and markets all over the world. China already dominates food trade with Southeast Asia as a supplier and a buyer. Chinese buyers are getting more experience and upping their game in Latin America, Africa and Eastern Europe.
[Expana] What have we learned from past trade disputes, such as the one between the US and China, or conflicts like the one in Russia–Ukraine? Are there lessons the ag sector can apply going forward?
[Fred Gale] I think we have learnt that ag commodity markets are surprisingly adaptable. Markets got pretty much back to business as usual within a couple years after incidents that seemed to change everything like the 2007 commodity price spike, the 2018 US China trade war, and the disruption of Black Sea grain shipments in 2022.
[Expana] In your opinion, what’s the one insight that comes to mind that you think every agri-food leader should consider right now?
[Fred Gale] As you scour the globe looking for new suppliers to diversify your supplier network, stay vigilant on hidden risks of food safety and quality. The US had some crises in this regard during the early 2000s when China was scouted out as a supplier of items like wheat gluten and organic soybeans; now Chinese buyers are encountering some problems as they recruit new suppliers in Latin America and other parts of the world.
[Expana] Aside from your panel discussion what else are you looking forward to at Agri-Food Americas this year?
[Fred Gale] I am looking forward to learning about developments in food service, consumer behavior, data analysis, and supply chain developments.
The global agrifood landscape is shifting, are you ready to lead through that change?
From market volatility to supply chain disruption, business strategy, and risk management, this is where decision-makers come together to rise to the challenges and make the most of every opportunity.
Join us at Agri-Food Americas: https://www.expanamarkets.com/events/agrifood-americas/
