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ABA announces Ambassador Tai as Convention speaker

She will speak on trade relations between U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

ABA announces Ambassador Katherine Tai as speaker — Courtesy of ABA

The American Bakers Association (ABA) announced that Ambassador Katherine Tai, former U.S. Trade Representative (2021–2025), will serve as a speaker at the 2026 ABA Annual Convention, taking place April 19–23 at The Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, CO.

As the 19th U.S. Trade Representative and a member of former President Biden’s cabinet, Ambassador Tai served as the principal advisor, negotiator, and spokesperson on U.S. trade policy. Unanimously confirmed by the Senate, she is widely recognized for her ability to build bipartisan consensus while advancing America’s global economic interests, ABA says. Tai reportedly played a pivotal role in negotiations between Congressional Democrats and the Trump Administration that led to the historic ratification of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in 2020.

Ambassador Tai’s session, “Trade Relations Between the United States, Canada, and Mexico: The Future of USMCA,” reflects ABA’s continued commitment to delivering timely, high-impact content that addresses the most pressing issues facing the industry today. As North American trade continues to evolve amid supply chain disruptions, shifting trade policies, and geopolitical pressures, her session will explore key considerations ahead of the 2026 USMCA review. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the future of regional trade, policy priorities, and the implications for manufacturers and the commercial baking industry, the org notes.

Tai brings deep expertise shaped by her work across five presidential administrations, including her role as chief counsel for China Trade Enforcement and her experience as a World Trade Organization litigator. She offers a unique global perspective on trade dynamics and economic strategy.

“ABA is committed to meeting our members where they are, with the timely information they need at the highest level possible,” says ABA President and CEO Eric Dell. “As issues impacting our industry evolve day by day, we are continually enhancing the Convention schedule to deliver even greater value. Ambassador Tai’s unparalleled experience strengthens an already robust program and ensures our members are equipped with the insights they need to navigate what’s ahead.”

“Katherine Tai brings a rare combination of policy expertise and real-world negotiation experience,” says ABA VP, Government Relations Rasma Zvaners. “Her perspective on USMCA and global trade will give ABA members critical and timely context as they navigate supply chains, market access, and the broader economic environment.”