ASIA – The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) has appointed Alejandra Danielson Castillo as new regional director for South Asia, a newly created director position that aims to increase the organisations presence in the region.
She will responsible for the firm’s grain trading business in South Asia effective March 11.
Prior to her appointment, Danielson Castillo served as manager of global trade, providing trade servicing expertise to the Council, strengthening the Council’s relationships with U.S. and global traders.
She was also responsible for furthering the export marketing interests of U.S. feed grains and co-products around the globe.
Danielson Castillo joined USGC in 2017 from Cargill, where her work focused on trade execution and logistics for cotton, grains and oilseeds.
“I am very much looking forward to being in the region at this exciting time,” said Danielson Castillo.
“South Asia is a dynamic region in terms of population, economy and trade policy. Having a physical presence will allow us to provide rapid response for emerging trade issues, create partnerships that leverage the U.S. advantage and ultimately encourage collaboration at this critical period of growth and expansion.”
Kurt Shultz, USGC senior director of global strategies, who oversees programs in South Asia said: “Alejandra has been working in the region for the past year and has embraced both the ethanol and the feed grains agenda for this region, so we are excited for this transition to occur.
“We have already developed a robust agenda for India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
Having her assume responsibility for this region and being based there will give our local consultants the necessary in-country support to ensure our programs are impactful and that these markets get the attention they deserve.”
Market expansion
Danielson will be stationed at the Washington office before moving to India where the Grains Council plans to open a new office.
According to the Council, South Asia presents new market opportunities for U.S. feed grains and related products such as ethanol, thus need to engage an expansion in this region.
“The establishment of a South Asia director and the appointment of Alejandra will enable the Council to intensify its strategic focus in this critical region,” said Tom Sleight, USGC president and CEO.
“We have been engaged in India for a long time, 20 years and now is the time to increase our focus and presence in this critical part of the world.
The dynamic of increasing per capita demand growth for food, feed and energy is surging throughout the region.”
