News Release

Brasil International Gazeta

Headlines - September 1

MEATS SHOULD LEAD FOREIGN SALES IN 2005

Neila Baldi

Sao Paulo

For the first time, Brazil could export more meat than soybeans.  Revenues from export sales of chicken, pork and beef and their derivatives should be above US $8 billion.

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Econ101 can not help himself.  He has been trained to think the way he does.  The same goes for Agman.  Personally, I do not have a problem with that.  It is best that not everyone thinks the same even though each person may be convinced that his or her view is based on "--- laws," and how many times have you heard, "It takes all kinds to make the world go around."

Therefore, once again I will plead for the fighting to stop, and for everyone to contribute his or her specialty to a common, innovative plan for the future of the U.S. beef industry.  I believe the plan must include Tyson et al until they are replaced by other companies (if that happens) even though they may increase their globalization activities.

"Utopia" is probably not going to happen.  Rather, the battle will become more competitive and intense and not for the faint of heart.  Only a large amount of determination will enable the U.S. beef industry to survive in light of such things as the "Mexicanization of America" which brings new issues such as a higher percentage of the population being Hispanic and lower median household incomes as a result.

We need lots of thought and innovation to figure out how to deal with a total population that is not going to be able to buy as much high priced beef per capita and how to compete in production with other countries.  Too much time is being wasted in my opinion.  How about everyone trying to come up with some good ideas that will make survival more likely?  Or is that not important to you?

Finally, let's pray for wisdom and guidance.  Anybody with me?  Or are you going to continue singing "the road goes on forever, and the party never ends!"