NMPF National Milk Producers Federation : Jan. 17 - NMPF Statement on Selection of Tom Vilsack as New President of U.S. Dairy Export Council

From Jim Mulhern, President and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation

'Tom Vilsack has a remarkable record of accomplishment working on behalf of American agriculture during the past eight years, and we are thrilled he will dedicate his talents in the coming years to expanding opportunities across the globe for America's dairy farmers.

NMPF's leadership on trade policy has benefited tremendously from the long-standing partnership we have had with USDEC on this key industry priority area. The unity developed through this important relationship has fostered an approach to dairy trade policy that has helped producers and processors. Our joint work has provided a strong complement to USDEC's broader market development efforts designed to expand U.S. dairy exports.

Secretary Vilsack arrives at USDEC at a pivotal time, as we continue to face both challenges and opportunities to expanding U.S. dairy exports. Secretary Vilsack's familiarity with our trading partners provides him with a strong background to advance the programs of USDEC and its members in the future.

The U.S. Dairy Export Council was formed 22 years ago by Dairy Management Inc. to create a unique new platform to promote American dairy products, at a time when the U.S. was a minor player in international dairy markets. The U.S. dairy sector today is an export powerhouse, selling nearly 15% of our milk production to foreign customers.

We are looking forward to a mutually-beneficial partnership with Mr. Vilsack in his role as ambassador for America's dairy exporters.'