Joint Statement: Wheat Industry Welcomes Senate Confirmation of Doug McKalip as USTR Ag Negotiator

Washington, D.C. (December 23, 2022) – Following almost two years without a Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) and the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) are very glad that the U.S. Senate has confirmed Doug McKalip to fill the position.

“Mr. McKalip’s work in conservation, with the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, and recent negotiations with the Mexican government on biotech issues match up perfectly with some of the most important agricultural trade barriers,” said USW President Vince Peterson. “He is well prepared for this position, and we look forward to working with him to open and grow overseas markets for U.S. wheat,” “Congratulations to Doug McKalip for filling this critical role,” said NAWG CEO, Chandler Goule. “I know Doug very well from his decades of public service at the USDA, and he will be an absolute asset to USTR, wheat growers and the ag community. With half the wheat grown in the United States destined for foreign markets, it is essential we have these key trade roles filled and we look forward to having Doug advocate for U.S. wheat farmers.”

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About U.S. Wheat Associates. USW’s mission is to develop, maintain, and expand international markets to enhance wheat’s profitability for U.S. wheat producers and its value for their customers in more than 100 countries. Its activities are made possible through producer checkoff dollars managed by 17 state wheat commissions and cost-share funding provided by USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. For more information, visit our website at www.uswheat.org

About the National Association of Wheat Growers. NAWG is the primary policy representative in Washington D.C. for wheat growers, working to ensure a better future for America’s growers, the industry, and the general public. NAWG works with a team of 20 state wheat grower organizations to benefit the wheat industry at the national level. From their offices in the Wheat Growers Building on Capitol Hill, NAWG’s staff members are in constant contact with state association representatives, NAWG grower leaders, Members of Congress, Congressional staff members, Administration officials, and the public.