USSEC recently provided trade and technical service to two Panamanian companies, which are the largest aqua feed manufacturer and shrimp producer in Panama.
USSEC consultant Gerardo Luna conducted a short course, “Purchasing and Hedging of Grains and Oilseeds.”  Included topics allowed for a thorough discussion of actual practices and potential ideas that could leverage the companies’ experience.  The agenda was defined based on past discussions and taking into account their revealed needs and preferences.  Topics ranged from talking about market information, sources and trends; to supplying feed manufacturers and aquaculture producers with tools and resources; looking at their purchasing of ingredients; a detailed introduction to agricultural futures and options; and a number of elements touched on the international grains and oilseeds markets.
USSEC consultant Jairo Amezquita led conversations examining soybean protein concentrates (SPCs) that could be included in feed ratios as a partial substitute of fishmeal, highlighting its sustainable related advantages as well as economic feasibility by looking at actual prices and costs.