Southern Forest Products Export Conference to Be Held in Memphis

NASHVILLE – The south is renowned for producing some of the highest quality forest products in the world, but getting those products to market can be a challenge. The upcoming Southern Forest Products Export Conference in Memphis, Tenn. offers solutions for businesses looking to grow.

The conference will feature a world-class panel of experts discussing the challenges and opportunities of exporting forest products from inland states. United States Department of Agriculture Under Secretary Ted McKinney and Canadian Consul General Nadia Theodore are among the distinguished guest speakers who will address trade issues.

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) Division of Forestry, through its Tennessee Wood Products brand marketing program, is hosting the conference to raise awareness of the importance of southern forest products and the industry that produces them, as well as the economic impact on the region and the global economy.

The Tennessee Small Business Development Centers will also lead a pre-conference Export 101 Bootcamp for businesses seeking to enter export markets.

“We look forward to hosting the fifth Southern Forest Products Export Conference here in Tennessee,” Agriculture Commissioner Jai Templeton said. “This event will offer industry leaders, emerging export producers, and nearby partners the opportunity to connect, learn, and work together to continue producing and marketing the region’s forest products.”

Partners assisting with hosting the event include the TDA Agricultural Advancement Division, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, Tennessee Forestry Association, participating state forestry agencies, and trade partners 

WHO:             Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry
WHAT:           5th Southern Forest Products Export Conference
WHEN:           Oct. 21 – Oct. 24 2018
WHERE:         The Guest House at Graceland 
                        3600 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, Tenn. 38116

The goal of the Southern Forest Products Export Conference is to increase the number of southern companies exporting forest products to international markets.