SYMPOSIUM HELPS DEVELOP INTERNATIONAL BEEF LEADERS

CHICAGO, IL, Nov. 19, 1997 -- Eight industry leaders from Canada, Mexico and the U.S. traveled across borders to learn more about foreign beef markets during the International Beef Industry Symposium held Nov. 5-12. The tour was conducted by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and sponsored by Excel Corporation.

   As they visited industry sites and associations in the three countries, delegates gained knowledge of international marketing and the traits of each country's consumers. Various aspects of beef production, packing, distribution and marketing were explored during the event, which included tours of ranches, feedlots, packing plants, research centers and retail stores. The participants also attended the Five Nations Beef Conference in Mexico City on Nov. 10.

   These kinds of programs are important to the U.S. beef industry, as it becomes more international in focus, according to Symposium Chairman Dana Hauck, a beef producer from Delphos, Kan. "More than 95 percent of the world's population lives outside of the U.S., and so it's important for our volunteer leaders to be as global in thinking as possible," Hauck said. "This symposium gave key people in our industry a better understanding of the complexities and needs of an international beef market."

   Included in the tour were three Canadians, two Mexicans and three Americans. U.S. delegates were chosen based on NCBA membership and participation, as well as involvement in state/national policy and consumer marketing activities.

   "As we move into the 21st century, we need to know more about the factors that will affect our ability to move product," said Hauck. "Symposiums like this give us that opportunity."

   Initiated in 1898, the National Cattlemen's Beef Association is the marketing organization and trade association for America's one million cattle farmers and ranchers. With offices in Denver, Chicago and Washington, D.C., NCBA is a consumer-focused, producer- directed organization representing the largest segment of the nation's food and fiber industry.