The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) embarked on a pivotal journey across Mexico with the 2024 Grain Handling and Storage Roadshow. The initiative focused on educating stakeholders about effective grain handling and storage techniques aimed at preserving grain quality and optimizing cost efficiencies throughout the supply chain.
Led by USGC Mexico Director Heidi Bringenberg, Manager of Global Strategies and Trade Alexander Grabois, and Consultant Pedro Kadota, the team engaged with end-users of U.S. feed grains in key Mexican states, including Yucatan, Jalisco, and Veracruz.
“We’re excited to have seen great attendance and active participation from feed millers and beef, swine, and poultry producers during the roadshow,” Bringenberg remarked. “This provided the Council with an opportunity to share valuable storage and handling techniques that prevent grain quality deterioration and demonstrate the value of U.S. products.”
As the largest trading partner of U.S. agriculture, Mexico plays a crucial role in the grain trade, making it essential for organizations like USGC to maintain strong relationships with local purchasers and producers. Bringenberg emphasized, “It’s important to show purchasers and producers in the country that we are not resting on our laurels and will always support and grow the Mexican market throughout the entire supply chain.”
The roadshow featured contributions from experts in the U.S. feed grain industry, including Dr. Klein Ileleji of Purdue University, Pete Mueller from Fumigation Services & Supply Inc., and Aaron Maple from Kokomo Grain Co. These industry leaders shared their firsthand experiences and insights into managing large-scale feed grain operations and effective fumigation practices for storage facilities.
The seminars kicked off with welcome addresses from Bringenberg and Grabois, focusing on the importance of proactive grain storage management and innovative technologies for monitoring grain supplies. The afternoon sessions included discussions led by Maple and Mueller, who provided practical advice on enhancing operational efficiency and grain quality.
Each seminar concluded with group discussions and Q&A segments, allowing attendees to engage directly with the experts and address specific challenges they face in their operations. “The roadshow allowed participants to directly interact with industry experts and peers while gaining practical knowledge they can implement immediately to stay ahead of industry trends and competitors,” Grabois noted.
By improving grain storage practices in Mexico, USGC aims to enhance consumer confidence in U.S. feed grains, ensuring the superior quality of U.S. corn and other products remains intact. The success of the roadshow reflects USGC's ongoing commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and strengthening trade relationships in the region.
