March 25, 2025

Virginia Agricultural Trade Conference Set for April 22
~ Registration deadline for this year’s conference is April 3 ~

Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that the 16th annual Virginia Agricultural Trade Conference will be held on April 22, 2025 at the Richmond Marriott, in Richmond, Virginia. This annual event brings policymakers, agriculture and forestry businesses, international dignitaries, and academic leaders together to highlight the vital role of agriculture and forestry in Virginia’s international trade landscape.

Individuals, groups, and companies interested in participating in this year’s conference may register at https://vafb.swoogo.com/vaagtrade25/begin. The deadline to register is April 3.

“Virginia farmers, agribusinesses, and timber companies produce top quality products which is evidenced in the state’s export success. This annual premier conference provides an important gathering place and educational forum for both experienced exporters and those wanting to break into the agricultural and forestry export market,” said Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew J. Lohr. “I look forward to discussing the importance of agriculture and forestry exports for the Commonwealth’s economy, and our efforts to strengthen trade partnerships and develop new export opportunities for Virginia producers.”

This year’s agricultural trade conference will feature an outstanding lineup of distinguished speakers who will discuss challenges in the global trade arena. USDA Chief Economist Seth Meyer will be a keynote speaker and provide an update on projections and policies influencing the nation’s agricultural economy. Another conference highlight is a panel discussion on growing Virginia’s agricultural exports that will include Brandon Bickham, Vice President of Export with Delong Company, and Randy Marcus, the Director of State Relations in Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia for CSX.

The Virginia Agricultural Trade Conference is co-hosted by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, Port of Virginia, and the Virginia Tech Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics.