Attendance at the 2011 Symposium is a must for everyone in the industry as preparations for the Farm Bill's renewal will be well underway. How will the U.S. sugar industry, and all of agriculture, fare in the Farm Bill given the dire budget realities?
Additional program topics will include the U.S. and world market supply-demand outlook, and the effect of multilateral, regional and bilateral trade agreements on world sugar policies and U.S. commodity programs.
Several landmark studies regarding the industry's efficiency and its size and scope, and food and sweetener trends will be unveiled during the Symposium. Speakers include those who are closely involved in formulating sugar policy, including U.S. legislators, domestic and foreign representatives, noted economists and high-profile sweetener industry leaders. A sampling of headline speakers includes:
-The Honorable Michael Scuse, Acting Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services, U.S. Department of Agriculture
-Senator Kent Conrad (D-ND), Chairman, Senate Budget Committee (invited)
-Rep. Collin Peterson (D-MN), Ranking Member, House Agriculture Committee
-Rep. Michael Conaway (R-TX), Chairman, House Agriculture Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management
-Rep. Peter Welch (D-VT), Member, House Agriculture Committee
-James Wiesemeyer, Vice President, Farm & Trade Policy, Informa Economics
-International sweetener industry experts with a focus on trade, marketing, energy, trends and other important issues.
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.
This year's location, the spectacular Stowe Mountain Lodge in Stowe, Vermont, will prove especially appealing. For over a century, the Stowe area has enjoyed international fame for its charming covered bridges, sparkling lakes, rambling woodlands, majestic peaks, unique artisans and mild summer climate. With the addition of the new Stowe Mountain Lodge, this area has become a prized international destination.
Preliminary program and registration materials are available at www.sugaralliance.org/symposium. Register now to attend this important industry event.