ARLINGTON, VIRGINA, US — The North American Millers’ Association (NAMA) annual fly-in to meet with government leaders included a new stop this year – the first international food aid showcase at the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) – in Washington, DC, US.

During the fly-in this week, representatives from 14 NAMA member companies participated in a total of 58 meetings with congressional offices, including key members of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees and appropriators. Conversations with lawmakers and their staffs focused on Farm Bill priorities, including advocating for the American Farmers Feed the World Act and investing in federal wheat, corn, and oat research on a range of topics impacting grains production and milling. 

NAMA is the only national trade association that exclusively represents the interests of the North American wheat, corn, oat, and rye milling industry before Congress, federal agencies, and international regulatory bodies.

“NAMA’s annual fly-in brings the milling industry’s collective voice to Capitol Hill like nothing else does,” said Kim Cooper, vice president of government affairs for NAMA. “Policymakers heard firsthand from millers in their districts and states about the importance of investing in grain research and opportunities to strengthen US international food aid programs in the Farm Bill.”

NAMA members also had the opportunity to participate in an international food aid showcase hosted by USDA. NAMA’s policy priorities reflect the role of millers as a crucial link in the food supply chain.

The showcase brought together diverse stakeholders from all segments of the US international food assistance value chain — from farmers to millers to implementing partners and government agencies. NAMA was joined by the American Peanut Council, US Dry Bean Council, US Dry Pea & Lentil Council, USA Rice, US Wheat Associates, and the National Sorghum Producers in supporting the event.