Final Session Highlights Upcoming USMCA Review, Tariffs and the Importance of a Market-Oriented Sugar Policy Framework

Washington, D.C. (February 25, 2026) – In the final session of the International Sweetener Colloquium, co-hosted by the Sweetener Users Association (SUA) and the International Dairy Foods Association, panelists today discussed the current state of U.S. trade policy, where it may be headed and what that may mean for sugar trade.

Leading the session, SUA President Rick Pasco reflected on the new era of tariff-based trade policy that emerged in 2025 and outlined policy changes coming down the pike, including a review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) for potential modifications in 2026. He explained how the agreement benefits the entire U.S. farm and food sector, including sugar-using companies, by expanding trade value and enhancing supply chains.

“The United States has always been a net sugar importer,” said Pasco. “Given that Mexico is the largest non-domestic supplier of sugar to the United States, Mexican imports will continue to play a vital role in ensuring reliable supplies for U.S. consumers and sugar-using companies — which support more than 600,000 U.S. jobs.”

Building on the discussions throughout the colloquium, the session underscored how supporting a more market-oriented U.S. sugar policy framework will be critical to meeting the needs of producers, consumers and food companies alike. Highlights from the week include:

  • “This International Sweetener Colloquium continues to be a linchpin opportunity for industry leaders to come together, hear from experts and engage in meaningful dialogue on the issues affecting their businesses. With so much uncertainty in the U.S. and global sugar markets, now is a critical time for stakeholders from across the sweetener supply chain to convene.” – Rick Pasco, President, Sweetener Users Association.
  • “Agencies play an important role in implementing recent reforms and making the U.S. sugar program more market oriented. Future policies should both support domestic industry and ensure adequate sugar supplies for users.” – Randy Green, Principal, Watson Green LLC

As the 2026 International Sweetener Colloquium concludes, SUA remains committed to advocating for policies that promote a more flexible, market-oriented U.S. sugar program and a trade framework that supports all stakeholders.

Media Contact:
Anna Miller
amiller@fratelli.com