USMEF Names New Chair at Strategic Planning Conference

USMEF’s Jay Theiler discusses his leadership role in representing U.S. beef and pork and provides an update on this week’s conference in Indianapolis.

INDIANAPOLIS (RFD-TV) — The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), an organization focused on increasing profit opportunities for the American red meat industry, named Jay Theiler as its new chairman. The announcement came during the Federation’s strategic planning conference in Indianapolis.

Theiler joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss his new role and provide an update on the conference, which also included planning for international trade strategies and collaboration with producers, packers, and other stakeholders.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Theiler shared a brief overview of his background, his experience in the red meat industry, and what led him to take on the chairmanship. He also discussed his priorities for the Federation, emphasizing the importance of supporting U.S. meat exports and maintaining strong relationships with global markets.

Theiler highlighted what sets USMEF apart from other trade organizations, noting its focus on connecting producers directly with international buyers and promoting long-term growth for the U.S. red meat sector.

Related Stories
One trader said the products entering the U.S. are primarily grind and trim, noting that the volume and type of beef, on its own, should not cause a major disruption. However, he says fund traders are reacting heavily to headlines rather than market realities.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, provides the latest insight into the timing, expectations, and broader considerations of the potential aid package, despite increasing exports to China.
According to November’s Cattle on Feed Report, Nebraska now leads the nation in cattle feeding as tighter supplies continue to reshape regional market power and long-term price dynamics.
Higher rail tariffs and tighter Canadian supplies will keep oat transportation costs firm into 2026.
Tyson’s closure reflects deep supply shortages in the U.S. cattle industry, tightening packing capacity, weakening competition, and signaling more volatility ahead for cow-calf producers and feedyards.
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses industry reactions to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, the Surface Transportation Board’s review process, and current conditions on the Mississippi River.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

A look at the legislative year ahead as lawmakers return to Washington with a slate of trade concerns to tackle in 2026—from new Chinese tariffs on beef imports to the USMCA review this summer.
Shaun Haney, Host of RealAg Radio on Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147, joined us with his 2026 cattle market outlook and insights on beef prices.
Farmer Bridge Assistance payments provide immediate balance-sheet support heading into 2026, but remain a short-term bridge rather than a substitute for long-term market recovery.
The New Year is here, but in Oregon, some ranchers and livestock producers are still trying to recover from record wildfires back in 2024.
The U.S. Forest Service takes us on the same journey from a tree farm in Nevada across America to experience the magic of Christmas in the U.S. Capitol.
Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-IA, details how the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” Act (OBBBA) supports farmers, biofuels, and rural communities with tax breaks, crop insurance relief, and ag infrastructure.