26TH INTERNATIONAL SWEETENER SYMPOSIUM

The theme of this year's Symposium, "The New U.S. Farm Bill: Market, Energy and Trade Implications," will provide a provocative and timely analysis of issues in the U.S. and world markets. Symposium speakers, many closely involved in formulating sugar policy, will include U.S. legislators, domestic and foreign officials, noted economists and high profile international sweetener industry leaders. Program speakers include: The Honorable James Miller, Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services, U.S. Department of Agriculture. Senator Kent Conrad (D-ND), Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee. Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ranking Republican of the Senate Finance Committee's Trade Subcommittee. Rep. Frank Lucas (R-OK), Ranking Republican of the House Agriculture Committee. James Wiesemeyer, Vice President, Farm & Trade Policy, Imforma Economics. Sweetener Users representatives including Hershey's, Kraft and the Grocery Manufacturers Association. International sweetener industry experts with a focus on trade, marketing, energy, trends and other timely topics. A special focus will be on the implementation of new sugar policy and a report card on how the new policy is affecting the U.S. market. Speakers will also assess the effects on sugar policy from Federal budget pressures, trade deficits, aggressive trade agendas, fluctuating energy prices and food security. Of special interest on the world front will be developments in the U.S.-Mexico open market for sweetener trade, as well as the progress or failure of the WTO trade talks. Other important issues will include regional and bilateral trade agreements, alternative energy sources worldwide, the impact of new political leaders, and the volatile world sugar market. Traditionally, the "Who's Who of the International Sugar Industry" attend the Symposium to hear the compelling program content. This meeting is also the perfect networking opportunity to build critical industry relationships with international colleagues and customers. The spectacular Park City location will prove especially appealing as the area is world-renowned for its mountain beauty, world-class dining opportunities, unique venues, and recreational activities. As an added bonus, Park City is easily accessible with the Salt Lake City International Airport conveniently located just 30 minutes from the Canyons Resort. And this chic locale offers surprisingly affordable airfare and lodging rates. The 2009 International Sweetener Symposium is a must-attend event for anyone closely involved in the sugar and sweetener industry. Registration materials are available on ASA's web site at www.sugaralliance.org/symposium.