IFPA Policy Retreat prepares industry advocacy for 2025 challenges

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) convened a Policy Retreat this month, gathering members of its U.S. Government Relations Council and Political Advisory Committee to lay the groundwork for its 2025 advocacy efforts. The event, held at National Harbor, aimed to address the most pressing legislative and regulatory issues affecting the fresh produce industry.

“This retreat comes at a crucial moment as we work to finalize the Farm Bill and head into the U.S. elections,” said Rebeckah Adcock, vice president of U.S. government relations for IFPA. “The feedback we get from our members is what resonates most with lawmakers, and this event is about aligning on the issues that will drive our advocacy in the year ahead.”

The retreat featured a range of expert-led discussions, with sessions addressing the upcoming IFPA Strategic Plan, industry trends, and how evolving policies could shape the future.

Leaders like Bret Erickson, chair of the U.S. Government Relations Council, and Tony Freytag, chair of the Political Advisory Committee, provided key insights into the political landscape.

“Building relationships and sharing our stories with lawmakers ensures our voices are heard. The more we engage, the more policymakers can understand our challenges,” Freytag said.

In the afternoon, the Political Advisory Committee focused on FreshPAC and grassroots initiatives, while the U.S. Government Relations Council addressed policy priorities for 2024 and 2025, including the ongoing Farm Bill discussions and labor regulations.

“The success of the Policy Retreat underscores the critical role advocacy plays in shaping the future of our industry,” Erickson said.

IFPA’s 2024 public policy agenda includes issues such as labor, nutrition, and supply chain efficiency.