RICHMOND—Policymakers, agribusiness professionals and academic leaders will soon share their insights regarding the Virginia agriculture and forestry industry’s role in the international trade landscape.

Over 250 people are expected to attend the 16th annual Virginia Agricultural Trade Conference April 22 in Richmond. The conference highlights the global impact of the commonwealth’s agricultural and forestry exports and features speakers who address challenges and opportunities in the industry.

In 2023, Virginia’s agricultural and forestry exports were valued at more than $3.6 billion, according to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Seth Meyer, chief economist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is invited to share a trade and domestic policy update. Panel discussions will focus on growing Virginia agricultural exports, as well as emerging issues in animal product markets featuring representatives from the meat export and dairy industries.

“Anytime we can bring together industry leaders, government officials and representatives of our global trading partners, it’s a win,” said Wilmer Stoneman, vice president of agriculture, development and innovation for Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, a conference co-sponsor.

Virginia’s top agricultural and forestry exports in 2023 were soybeans valued at over $1.4 billion, pork at more than $862 million, wood products exceeding $400 million, poultry at over $200 million, and tobacco sales that generated more than $180 million.

“The global economy is critical to marketing these products grown or produced by Virginia’s agriculture and forestry industries,” Stoneman continued. “The conference will provide an outlet for participants to discuss how to sustain and expand that impact.”

In 2023, China, Canada and the United Kingdom topped Virginia’s export list. China imported more than $912 million in agricultural products, while Canada bought more than $429 million and the United Kingdom imported more than $247 million.

According to information recently shared by VDACS, Virginia’s top five export markets in 2024 were Canada, Belgium, China, the United Kingdom and Mexico.

The conference will be held at the downtown Richmond Marriot and will be co-hosted by VDACS, VFBF, The Port of Virginia and the Virginia Tech Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics. Discounted parking is available.

Visit vafb.swoogo.com/vaagtrade25 to register by the April 3 deadline. Watch a Real Virginia video report about last year’s conference.

Media: Contact Stoneman at 804-290-1024.