Port Houston hosted a Perishables Summit Feb. 14-15 at the port’s executive building. The meeting was a platform to engage with exporters, growers and industries involved with the perishables trade focusing on imports of fruits and vegetables.

Topics discussed at the event included best practices for the supply chain, market challenges and reefer capacity. Networking opportunities and match making sessions between exporters and buyers were also organized. Tours were provided of the ports terminals and third-party warehouses with perishable-related operations.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration highlighted best practices for importing perishables, food safety regulations, cold treatment programs as well as other customs exams processes. The two-day event, which included tours of some of Houston’s refrigerated warehouses and port facilities, was developed to improve communication between all stakeholders of Port Houston’s perishable community.

The inaugural event featured a diverse group of Latin American produce export trade organizations and U.S. produce buyers.

“Houston is the best gateway for importing perishables,” said John Moseley, Senior Director of Trade Development for Port Houston. “Retailers and importers save time and money by using Houston instead of alternative ports because of our direct services from Central and South America and our ability to shorten transit times.  Short transit time and speed to table is what keeps the product fresh and price competitive.”