CGC News

Geneva, Switzerland, November 18, 2024 – The International Grain Trade Coalition (IGTC) held its General Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, bringing together members from around the globe for a hybrid in-person and virtual event. The event focused on strategic planning for 2025 and beyond, including key issues such as non-tariff regulatory trade barriers, adopting innovative digital solutions to streamline trade, and fostering stronger partnerships and advocacy to support and promote the grain trade with global organizations like the WTO.

A key highlight of the General Assembly was the election of a new executive team, with Erin Gowriluk, President of the Canada Grains Council (CGC), being elected as Vice-President. Alongside Erin, Pat O’Shannassy, CEO of Grain Trade Australia, was named IGTC President, and Rosalind Leeck, Executive Director for Market Access & Strategy with the U.S. Soybean Export Council, elected as Secretary. Gerald Makau Masila was re-elected as Treasurer.

In response, Erin Gowriluk, President of the Canada Grains Council, issued the following:

“I am so proud to have been given the opportunity to serve as Vice-President of the IGTC during a critical time for the global grain trade. As a founding member of the Coalition, the Canada Grains Council has always championed the IGTC’s mission of fostering science-based, trade-enabling policies. This role is pivotal as we tackle increasingly complex regulatory landscapes and work collaboratively to advance the global grain trade and ensure food security.”

“The IGTC remains at the forefront of addressing the increasing complexity of the global grain trade. Recent shifts away from science-based regulatory frameworks pose significant challenges to cross-border grain movement. The Coalition, composed of like-minded associations and organizations, is steadfast in its commitment to fostering collaboration to tackle these pressing issues.

The CGC also extends its gratitude to Alejandra Castillo, President and CEO of the North American Export Grain Association (NAEGA), for her outstanding leadership as IGTC President over the past year. Alejandra’s inclusive and transparent approach culminated in a pivotal strategic planning session with the Management Council in London this past June. Her efforts have laid a robust foundation for the Coalition’s future success.”

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Additional Information:

• About the IGTC: The IGTC is a global organization that unites trade associations and corporate stakeholders from around the world to develop common positions on key issues impacting the global grain trade, communicating those positions through external advocacy, education and guidance to members – ultimately establishing more trade enabling policies among governments and international organizations.