The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) recently led a trade mission to Accra, Ghana, aimed at expanding market opportunities for U.S. red meat in West Africa. The two-day seminar brought together 30 U.S. exporters and 76 buyers from 12 West African countries, followed by face-to-face meetings with 51 companies to foster trade relationships and build trust.
The event highlighted the quality, safety, and versatility of U.S. beef and pork, with USMEF Corporate Chef Germán Navarrete preparing locally inspired dishes to showcase different cuts. The seminar also introduced buyers to U.S. production practices and market support strategies.
Delegates toured retail outlets, cold storage facilities, and other key infrastructure to better understand market logistics. Heather Buckmaster, executive director of the Oklahoma Beef Council, emphasized the region’s diverse demand—from variety meats to premium cuts.
The trade mission was supported by USDA’s Emerging Markets and Regional Agricultural Promotion Programs, the Beef Checkoff Program, and the Illinois Corn Marketing Board.
