7th ACA Annual Conference Preview: CalifornAfrica!

In an increasingly complex world, how do African cashews, international trade, and the US economy relate? Participants at the 7^th ACA Annual Conference in Cotonou, Benin, will gain insight into this question with the help of Christopher Thornberg, one of the most anticipated speakers to be featured during the Plenary Session on September 18. Mr. Thornberg is an American economist and a founding partner of Beacon Economics, a leading California firm.

“I spend time looking at a variety of trade issues,” says Mr. Thornberg, who has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors to the conference. “I am going to bring an outsider’s view of the world economy to the industry and region.”

While Mr. Thornberg’s talk will no doubt be an incredible educational opportunity for all conference participants, he also looks forward to expanding his own knowledge about the African cashew industry while in Benin. “For me, being able to interact with the conference participants, learning about their industry, their plans and business will be a fascinating experience,” remarked Mr. Thornberg. “I have never been to West Africa, so I am thrilled to be seeing the region and meeting the people.” 

The topics to be covered by Mr. Thornberg will be relevant to all members of the cashew value chain. His speech will pay special attention to the final destination of many African-grown cashews – the United States and Europe. “As much of the cashew crop is sent to the developed world, I hope to help people better understand the dynamics of growth (or lack thereof) going on there – how it happened, what may happen next and of course what it means for the growers in terms of their business.”

Don’t miss this fascinating opportunity to hear an expert discuss cashew in a global economic context. Mr. Thornberg joins a field of industry professionals that will be speaking on all aspects of cashew during the Plenary Session as well as the specific workshops and forums that will be held on the next day of the conference. To register for the 7^th ACA Annual Conference and for further program details, visit http://www.africancashewalliance.com/conference/benin-2012.