Leonardo Tarriba Steps into Role as FPAA Chairman During Annual Membership Meeting

Members of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) held their annual meeting on September 29, 2020 in a virtual conference for members. This year the FPAA welcomed a new chairman, chairman-elect, and several board members. Members also discussed several key initiatives from 2019-2020 and outlooks for the upcoming year.

Jose Antonio Martinez Named FPAA Member of the Year

The Members of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) have named Jose Antonio Martinez of Divine Flavor as the 2020 Member of the Year. Martinez will be honored with the distinction at the FPAA’s Annual Meeting on Sept. 29, 2020.

FPAA Statement on USTR Actions on Perishable Produce: USTR Action Unwarranted

The United States Trade Representative released its plan which includes 201 investigations on blueberries and potentially on strawberries and bell peppers. The plan also outlines other actions that would impact U.S. companies distributing imported produce. The FPAA has issued the following statement.

FPAA Staff Positioned for Success

In order to ensure growth in a changing environment, the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas is making strategic changes that tap into the full strength of its staff members. As a result, FPAA will be able to continue to respond quickly to developing situations at the border, while also maintaining focus on issues of national and strategic importance.

USTR Hearings on Seasonal Produce: Looking Beyond the Rhetoric to the Facts -FPAA

Southeast produce growers insisted the US invoke rarely-used Section 301 National Security protections against Mexican imported produce. This would increase grocery costs for Americans, and potentially instigate a trade war with Mexico just weeks after the historic USMCA took effect, according to the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas.