U.S. Sugar Corporation is proud to announce that U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsak and U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk have appointed Judy Clayton Sanchez, of U.S. Sugar, to the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for Trade (ATAC) in Sweeteners and Sweetener Products.

“Trade issues have an enormous impact on the sugar industry and it is vital that our industry have a strong voice in Washington, D.C. Judy Sanchez brings that voice and nearly 20 years of experience and expertise to the table,” said Robert Coker, senior vice president, public affairs.

“With the 2012 Farm Bill discussions underway, Ms. Sanchez’ appointment could not have come at a more opportune time,” Coker said. “With the national economy in shambles, it is more important than ever that we not allow subsidized foreign sugar to replace efficient American sugar farmers and export more American jobs overseas.”

"With U.S. agricultural exports reaching record highs as our farmers and ranchers bring the American brand to more of the world consumers, agricultural trade is demonstrating once again its vital role in the health of our nation's economy," said Vilsak. "By serving on these committees, they have the opportunity to provide their expertise and knowledge to deliberations that influence U.S. trade policy, ultimately helping to grow, innovate and out-compete the rest of the world."

Congress established the advisory committee system in 1974 to ensure a private-sector voice in establishing U.S. agricultural trade policy objectives to reflect U.S. commercial and economic interests. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative jointly manage the committees.

Advisory committee members provide advice and information to the Secretary of Agriculture and the U.S. Trade Representative on negotiating objectives, positions and other matters related to the development, implementation and administration of U.S. agricultural trade policy. The ATACs offer technical advice and information on specific commodities. This appointment requires secret security clearance. These members will serve until June 9, 2015.

“This is both a great honor and opportunity for Ms. Sanchez and a great benefit for the sugar and sweetener industry,” Coker said. Sanchez is the senior director of corporate communications and public affairs.

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