WASHINGTON – The North American Meat Institute (NAMI) announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the British Meat Processors Association (BMPA). The move comes after both groups expect meat trade negotiations to start between the United States and the United Kingdom.

“Members of the Meat Institute and the British Meat Processors Association share many common goals, especially regarding food safety, sustainability, nutrition and worker safety,” said Bill Westman, NAMI senior vice president for international affairs. “As our governments begin trade talks, it is important to members in both organizations to formalize an already beneficial relationship. We look forward to working with the Administration and our British counterparts to improve access to significant trade opportunities between our nations.”

The trade association said the partnership will benefit each organization, and support mutually beneficial regulations, standards and policies to enhance bilateral trade in meat and poultry products.

NAMI Chairman and President and CEO of Sigma, Warren Panico, signed the MOU along with his counterpart Nick Allen, CEO of the BMPA.

Allen plans to attend the annual Meat Industry Summit in San Antonio, Texas, later this spring to kick off the relationship.

Member discount rates will be extended to both group’s conferences, workshops and other educational opportunities.