Some features of this site are not compatible with older versions of Internet Explorer.
Upgrade your browser to better experience this site.
Some features of this site are not compatible with older versions of iOS.
Update your operating system to better experience this site.
Some features of this site are not compatible with the Android stock browser.
Upgrade to Google Chrome to better experience this site.
Your operating system (Windows 8) is outdated and may not be supported. For a better and more secure experience, consider upgrading to the latest version of Windows:
Upgrade to Windows 11 Upgrade to Windows 10
X
Western U.S.
Agricultural Trade Association
Increasing International Growth of Western Agribusinesses by providing
Financial Support, Export Education, and Business Development Services.

Western U.S.
Agricultural Trade
Association

WUSATA Homepage Video
Feb 18, 2026 Japan Trade Shows This seminar is designed for U.S.-based food and specialty agricultural companies evaluating or planning participation in FOODEX Japan, the country’s premier food and beverage trade exhibition. The session focuses on helping exporters understand whether FOODEX is the right fit for their products and, if so, how to approach the show strategically to maximize business outcomes. Speakers will walk participants through the full FOODEX lifecycle, from pre-show decision-making and preparation to on-site execution and post-show follow-up. Topics will include exhibitor expectations, buyer behavior at FOODEX, cultural considerations, and practical guidance on presenting products effectively to Japanese importers, distributors, and retailers.The webinar will also address operational considerations unique to exhibiting in Japan, including shipping samples for trade shows, documentation requirements, coordination with Japanese partners, and navigating food import inspections. A case example will illustrate how companies have successfully used FOODEX to establish commercial relationships and advance market entry. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how FOODEX fits into a broader Japan market strategy and what it takes to participate successfully.Detailed Webinar Overview:1. Welcome & Objectives Introduction to speakers and session purpose How this seminar differs from general trade show guidance2. FOODEX in Context: Why It Matters Overview of FOODEX Japan and its role in the Japanese food industry Who attends FOODEX and how buyers use the shows Determining whether FOODEX is the right platform for your product3. FOODEX Readiness & Planning Timeline Key decisions before committing to exhibit Recommended preparation timeline (3 months, 1 month, 1 week out) Coordinating booth design, samples, and marketing materials4. Presenting Products for the Japanese Buyer Packaging, sizing, and visual presentation expectations Labeling considerations for trade show samples Using translated materials effectively without over-investing5. Shipping Samples & Materials to FOODEX Shipping strategies for trade shows (courier, air freight, consolidated shipments) Timing shipments to align with FOODEX move-in schedules Common mistakes that cause delays or rejected shipments6. Regulatory & Customs Considerations for Trade Shows Required documentation for food samples entering Japan Overview of food inspection and compliance at trade shows Working with Japanese partners, agents, or customs brokers7. Case Example: Lessons from FOODEX Participation What worked, what didn’t, and what companies wish they knew earlier Translating FOODEX conversations into real business opportunities8. Wrap-Up & Key Takeaways Checklist for FOODEX preparation How to assess post-show next steps Where to find additional export support and guidance9. Q&A Interactive discussion with participantsLearning Outcomes:1. Evaluate FOODEX as a Market Entry ToolUnderstand FOODEX’s role in Japan’s food trade ecosystem and identify indicators that determine whether FOODEX is the right trade show for a given product.2. Plan Strategically for FOODEX ParticipationOutline a realistic FOODEX preparation timeline while understanding the critical pre-show decisions that directly impact exhibitor success.3. Align Product Presentation with Buyer ExpectationsRecognize Japanese buyer preferences for packaging, portioning, and presentation and understand how to adapt products for effective trade show evaluation.4. Manage Trade Show Logistics EffectivelyIdentify appropriate shipping methods for trade show samples and materials while understanding the documentation and timing requirements involved.5. Navigate Regulatory Requirements for Trade Show SamplesRecognize key Japanese import and inspection requirements for food samples and understand the role of local partners and service providers.6. Convert FOODEX Leads into Business OpportunitiesApply culturally appropriate follow-up strategies and understand how FOODEX participation fits into longer-term Japan market development**The meeting link will be sent to registered companies before the meeting via email**Presented by Bryant Christie Inc.
Riverside
Mar 04, 2026 Turn Visits into Deals: Hosting International Buyers in the U.S. This seminar is designed for Western U.S. exporters, particularly growers, packers, processors, and food marketers, who anticipate hosting or meeting international buyers in the United States. The session will provide a practical overview of what inbound buyers expect when visiting U.S. operations, including product quality, traceability, sustainability practices, and export readiness. Attendees will gain insights into preparing facilities, aligning offerings with buyer expectations, and managing logistics and documentation for effective buyer engagement. The presentation will also cover strategies for creating impactful buyer visits, including presentations, tours, and sampling. A featured case study will illustrate lessons learned from a successful U.S. exporter hosting inbound buyers. Participants will leave with actionable steps to ensure their operations are export-ready and positioned to maximize the impact of inbound buyer missions.Detailed Webinar Overview:1. Welcome & ObjectivesWelcome and objectives of the seminar Why hosting inbound buyers is a critical tool for export growth Key buyer expectations: quality, traceability, and responsible production 2. Understanding the International BuyerBuyer motivations: sourcing high-quality, safe, and sustainable products How market trends influence purchasing decisions (health, sustainability, certification requirements) Regional differences in buyer priorities (Europe, Asia, Latin America) 3. Preparing Your OperationsFacility readiness: cleanliness, organization, and tour logistics Product presentation: samples, specifications, and certifications Traceability and documentation: demonstrating quality and compliance 4. Regulatory & Market ConsiderationsU.S. export compliance essentials Labeling and packaging requirements for specific international marketsCertifications relevant to inbound buyers (e.g., USDA Organic, GlobalG.A.P., BRCGS) 5. Showcasing Your Competitive Advantage Telling your brand story: sustainability, origin, and quality Leveraging certifications and third-party verification to build trust Interactive buyer engagement techniques: tours, tastings, and demonstrations6. Spotlight: Lessons from Successful Inbound MissionsCase study of a U.S. exporter hosting buyers from multiple regions Best practices: scheduling, presentation, hospitality, and follow-up Common challenges and solutions to ensure buyer satisfaction 7. Practical Steps for Export ReadinessAligning internal teams and operations for buyer visits Document preparation and logistics coordination Follow-up strategies to convert buyer interest into sales 8. Q&AInteractive Q&A with seminar presenters Learning OutcomesUnderstand international buyer expectations for U.S. operations and product presentations. Identify operational and logistical requirements for hosting inbound buyers, including facility readiness, sampling, and traceability. Recognize the importance of certifications and documentation in building buyer confidence. Develop strategies to effectively communicate quality, sustainability, and origin stories during buyer visits. Apply best practices from case studies to plan and execute successful inbound buyer missions.Prepare teams and operations to maximize the impact of inbound buyer visits and facilitate ongoing business relationships.**The meeting link will be sent to registered companies before the meeting via email**Presented by Bryant Christie Inc.,
Riverside
Mar 11, 2026 Playwright Event 2026 91647 Test
Test
Mar 18, 2026 Gateway to Asia – Transhipments in Singapore and Hong Kong This seminar is designed for Western U.S. exporters who are looking to build a practical foundation in how transshipments work and why they play a critical role in accessing Asian and global markets. The presentation will walk through the basics of transshipment, Asia’s central position in global supply chains, and the shipping dynamics that make Singapore and Hong Kong two of the world’s most important logistics gateways. By grounding the discussion in shipping trends, trade flows, and geography, the session will help exporters better understand how goods move through these hubs and how transshipment decisions influence cost, speed, and market reach.The seminar will also touch on exporter-relevant risks and opportunities tied to transshipment strategies. Participants will learn how transshipment can affect reported trade data, what compliance and rules-of-origin issues to watch for, and how emerging policy and market trends may shape future routing decisions. A case study will translate these concepts into a real-world scenario, providing exporters with a better understanding on when and how to use Singapore or Hong Kong as part of a compliant, resilient, and competitive export strategy.Detailed Webinar Overview:1. Welcome & Objectives Introduction to session goals: understanding transshipments and how they influence tradeWhy Singapore and Hong Kong are key gateways to Asia and beyond2. The Basics of Transshipments What transshipment is and how it works Why companies use transshipment hubsRole in modern supply chains3. Asia’s Role in Global Supply Chains Asia’s importance in manufacturing and consumption Major East-West and intra-Asia trade flows Growing demand for flexible logistics4. Singapore as a Transshipment Gateway Shipping trends and data Strategic location along Strait of Malacca Key strengths and typical use cases5. Hong Kong as a Transshipment Gateway Shipping trends and data Role as a gateway to China Key strengths and typical use cases6. Risks, Compliance, and Emerging Trends Transshipment’s impact on reported trade data Transshipment compliance and rules of origin Trends and policy shaping the future of transshipment7. Case Study & Market Insights Real-world insights from working in Hong Kong and Singapore How transshipment impacts trade in and around these hubs Key Lessons learned for U.S. exporters8. Q&A Interactive discussion with participantsParticipants will be able to:1. Understand how transshipment through hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong enhances market access, flexibility, and connectivity for exporters into Asia.2. Differentiate the strategic roles of Singapore and Hong Kong as transshipment gateways.3. Recognize Asia’s role in global supply chains and how shifting trade flows influence export routing decisions.4. Identify key compliance considerations related to transshipment, including impacts on trade data, documentation, and rules of origin.5. Apply shipping trends and policy insights to make transshipment decisions.6. Leverage case study lessons to anticipate challenges and opportunities in the transshipment space.**The meeting link will be sent to registered companies before the meeting via email**Presented by Bryant Christie Inc.,
Riverside
If you're just getting started, no worries!

Our programs are perfectly built to get your company where it needs to be. We can help grow your business internationally.

Make the World Your Customer Sign up to start benefiting from WUSATA's programs today.

Our Members

WUSATA Members are the 13 Western State Departments of Agriculture, as well as the territorial departments in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. 

All Members
Our Members

WUSATA Members are the 13 Western State Departments of Agriculture, as well as the territorial departments in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. 

View All
stag