The Pet Food Institute (PFI) extended its congratulations to Daniel Whitley on his permanent appointment as Administrator of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). PFI, whose members produce the vast majority of dog and cat food and treats in the United States, works closely with FAS, and the pet food industry relies on the agency’s expertise and worldwide presence to advance the interests of U.S. food and agriculture producers and exporters.

“Whether it’s engaging importing country officials to obtain release of a detained shipment, managing the programs that create demand for U.S. products or negotiating expanded foreign market access for U.S. dog and cat food, FAS plays a critical role in facilitating exports,” said Peter Tabor, vice president of regulatory and international affairs at PFI. “We are grateful to Secretary Vilsack for permanently appointing Daniel to lead FAS. Daniel is an experienced and capable leader, and we look forward to working with him and his excellent team at FAS to secure and expand market access for U.S. pet food.”

In addition to providing complete and balanced nutrition for the 180 million pets in the United States, PFI members make dog and cat food sold around the world. Pet food exports reached $1.7 billion in 2020, with Canada, Japan and Mexico representing the three largest markets. For more information about U.S. pet food, visitwww.petfoodinstitute.org.