Last week, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) conducted a technical training course for Peruvian feed manufacturers aimed at strengthening relationships with decisionmakers in the industry while reinforcing the value proposition of U.S. corn in terms of quality, consistency and supply reliability.
“Peru is a major corn importer, purchasing up to four million metric tons (MMT) annually, but U.S. market share has slipped in recent years,” said Diana Correa, USGC marketing specialist for Latin America (LTA). “By re-engaging the market, the Council can position itself as a key resource for technical knowledge and trade-related discussions, which in turn may help pave the way for future opportunities for U.S. grain exports.”
In addition to providing information on the applications of U.S. corn in feed milling, the program also introduced U.S. corn co-products to Peruvian buyers, ensuring they are aware of their nutritional benefits as part of a diversified sourcing strategy.
Correa represented the Council at the event along with USGC Deputy Regional Director for LTA Juan Sebastian Díaz. Auburn University Extension Specialist and Associate Professor of Poultry Science Wilmer Pacheco was also on hand to lend his expertise to the more than 30 industry stakeholders in attendance.
The two-day event featured educational presentations followed by site visits and meetings with vital components along the value chain.
Seminar topics included updates on the latest technologies in feed milling, mixing techniques to produce homogenous food and operational tips and strategies to improve overall pellet quality.
Participants then traveled to a leading feed mill in the region to see firsthand how corn and corn co-products are used for maximum performance and efficiency. Finally, the group met with representatives from the Peruvian Poultry Association to learn about the resources and services they provide to the industry.
“By targeting training programs at professionals like feed mill operators, procurement managers and nutritionists, the Council can amplify its messaging about the benefits of U.S.-origin corn,” Correa said. “This is just the first step in regaining U.S. producers’ share in this mature market, and we are closely watching how our engagements in Peru are helping spread the word about U.S. corn quality and reliability.”
Learn more about the Council’s work in Peru here.
About The U.S. Grains Council
The U.S. Grains Council develops export markets for U.S. barley, corn, sorghum and related products including distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol. With full-time presence in 28 locations, the Council operates programs in more than 50 countries and the European Union. The Council believes exports are vital to global economic development and to U.S. agriculture’s profitability. Detailed information about the Council and its programs is online at www.grains.org.