The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) has presented a comprehensive set of federal policy priorities to President-Elect Trump’s transition team, aiming to advance innovation, reduce regulatory barriers, and expand global market access for U.S. dairy products.
IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes emphasized that these priorities are critical to fostering growth and addressing challenges in the dairy industry. According to Dykes, U.S. dairy leads the world in productivity but faces pressing issues such as workforce shortages, restricted export opportunities, and complex regulations. By collaborating with the incoming administration, IDFA seeks to create new opportunities for U.S. dairy farmers and processors to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.
The U.S. dairy sector supports over 3.2 million jobs, contributing $49 billion in direct wages and generating a total economic impact of $794 billion annually. Representing a wide spectrum of industry players—from multinational corporations to small-scale operations—IDFA advocates for policies that empower its members to deliver high-quality, nutritious dairy products domestically and globally.
The association’s priorities include:
- Addressing workforce challenges to ensure a stable and reliable labor supply.
- Reducing regulatory burdens that limit business efficiency and innovation.
- Expanding export opportunities to promote U.S. dairy products in international markets.
- Supporting initiatives that drive investment in sustainable and innovative dairy practices.
Dykes expressed optimism about building a productive relationship with the new administration to achieve these goals. He noted the potential for U.S. dairy to reach a “golden age” in providing nutritious, high-quality products worldwide.
To learn more about IDFA’s federal policy priorities, visit their official webpage.
