TUCKER, Ga. — Ah, the “T’s.”
Transition.
Tariffs.
Turning points.
Pardon the alliteration — but it fits. The year 2025 has brought major changes for businesses worldwide, including those in our industry. Change, of course, often comes with challenges — but also with opportunities for renewal and growth.
The USA Poultry & Egg Export Council (USAPEEC) represents the export interests of more than 230 members, including processors, traders, cold storage operators, soybean and corn commodity groups, shippers, and port authorities. Together, they account for 95 percent of all U.S. poultry and egg exports — nearly $6 billion annually.
At the heart of their mission lies another key “T” word: trade.
Trade depends on stability and clear direction—and the current administration has made it clear that strengthening America’s trade position is a top priority. The focus on fair and reciprocal trade has encouraged many partners to come back to the table, helping ensure that U.S. producers compete on a level playing field in global markets.
While tariff policies can sometimes present short-term challenges, they also serve as powerful tools for negotiation — opening the door to fairer agreements and helping to correct long-standing trade imbalances. For our industry, the goal is to ensure that U.S. poultry and egg products — among the most efficiently and sustainably produced in the world — receive the market access they deserve.
In some cases, our trading partners have responded with measures of their own, creating a complex landscape for exporters. Yet, even in this environment, progress is being made. Many nations have engaged more directly with the U.S. to resolve differences, an encouraging sign that constructive dialogue is possible when trade issues are addressed firmly but fairly.
It’s also worth noting that some of the barriers our industry faces are not new, and not necessarily tied to tariffs. Restrictions linked to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), for instance, often extend beyond what science supports. Encouragingly, renewed engagement with key markets has opened discussions about lifting these non-tariff barriers, bringing us closer to science-based, proportionate trade policies that protect both animal health and open markets.
While global tensions continue to pose challenges, the spirit of collaboration remains strong. At USAPEEC, we are working closely with the U.S. government to ensure our members’ voices are heard and that American poultry and eggs maintain their vital role in global food supply chains.
On the horizon
Looking ahead to 2026, we’re optimistic.
With continued leadership focused on strengthening America’s trade position and promoting fair access for U.S. products, the outlook for our industry, and for our trading partners worldwide, remains bright.
Greg Tyler is president and CEO of the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council headquartered in Tucker, Ga. For more information, visit www.usapeec.org
