By Blake Jackson
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), through its International Agribusiness Center (IABC), welcomed 13 international delegations representing 21 countries during the 2026 World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin, held September 29 through October 2.
More than 130 international delegates traveled to Wisconsin to explore the state's agricultural industry, visit farms and agribusinesses, meet local suppliers, and experience its dairy products.
Participating countries included Brazil, China, Mexico, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Pakistan, Thailand, Vietnam, and several others across Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Europe.
DATCP coordinated with delegations supported by Food Export Midwest, USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service, the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council, U.S. Livestock Genetics Export, and the World Initiative for Soy in Human Health.
During their visits, delegates toured farms, livestock genetics facilities, animal feed businesses, and other agricultural operations to learn about Wisconsin's production systems, processing capabilities, and agricultural innovations.
The itinerary also included facilities associated with the Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Soybean Association, Wisconsin Biofuels Association, and University of Wisconsin Extension.
Visitors explored the Arlington Research Station and other University of Wisconsin–Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences facilities, gaining insight into agricultural research, education, and technology.
Business meetings organized in partnership with the National Association of Animal Breeders and Certified Semen Services provided additional opportunities for international visitors to connect with industry representatives.
The IABC also arranged business-to-business meetings between international buyers and Wisconsin companies. These discussions focused on specific purchasing requirements, available products, production practices, and potential commercial partnerships, helping establish relationships that could lead to future export opportunities.
“In 2025, Wisconsin exported $3.99 billion in agricultural, forestry, and food products to 148 countries. Wisconsin's continued success in global markets is due to trade shows like World Dairy Expo and participation in events like the Tri-National Accord," said DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski.
"Due to continued relationship building and partnership, people are coming to Wisconsin because we make meaningful and lasting connections with buyers and exporters alike. Now and into the future, DATCP will continue to turn international relationships into export potential, new customers, and long-term commercial opportunity," Romanski added.
Photo Credit: world-dairy-expo
Categories: Wisconsin, Business