Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association, released the following statement today on President-elect Joe Biden’s expected nomination of Katherine Tai to serve as U.S. Trade Representative.

“IDFA welcomes the nomination of Katherine Tai to serve as U.S. Trade Representative. Ms. Tai is an experienced and knowledgeable trade negotiator who will position U.S. interests above those of competitors, remain vigilant to protect U.S. businesses from myriad barriers to trade, and who will embrace diplomacy and relationship-building. Moreover, as a staff member in the U.S. House of Representatives, Ms. Tai recognizes the importance of working collaboratively with Congress to reauthorize Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) before it expires in 2021 to ensure a strong negotiating position for the United States, which will result in a stronger U.S. economy.

“On day one of President-Elect Biden’s Administration, the U.S. trade situation will be complex at best. Complexities emerging around the world—from North America to Asia, from Europe to Africa—require the United States to quickly and effectively negotiate preferential trade agreements with U.S. trading partners that include meaningful access for U.S. dairy and other food and agricultural goods. The future success and viability of the U.S. dairy industry relies on the health of global market opportunities, and therefore IDFA offers its partnership to Ms. Tai and the staff at USTR to position U.S. dairy for success.”