From Ports to Plates: Making Sense of Trade Policy

Trade policy is increasingly shaping the day-to-day realities of restaurant operations — from food costs and supply chain reliability to equipment pricing and overall profitability. As policymakers revisit major agreements like the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) and consider new tariffs and trade actions, the stakes for the restaurant industry continue to grow.

Join the National Restaurant Association for a timely discussion that breaks down the current trade policy landscape and what it means for restaurants. Policy experts will provide an overview of key trade developments affecting food, agriculture, and equipment supply chains, explain why trade is a central focus in Washington right now, and connect ongoing policy actions to real-world business implications for operators.

Designed for restaurant owners, operators, member company executives, government affairs professionals, state restaurant associations, and advocacy partners, this webinar offers practical insights to help you understand how trade policy decisions translate into operational challenges and opportunities.

Key Takeaways

Participants will explore:

• How trade policy affects restaurant operations. An overview of how tariffs, trade agreements, and global supply chain dynamics influence food costs, equipment pricing, sourcing, and overall profitability.
• What’s happening in Washington and why it matters. A snapshot of current and emerging trade policy developments — including major agreements and active investigations — and why trade is a growing priority for policymakers.
• Where uncertainty is coming from. Insight into the key drivers of volatility in food, agriculture, and equipment supply chains, and how these uncertainties can impact restaurant planning and pricing decisions.
• What to watch next. A forward-looking view of the trade issues most relevant to the restaurant industry and how operators can stay informed as policy developments evolve.