The National Ethanol Conference (NEC) has been selected to participate in the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Buyer Program (IBF). This marks the first time the NEC has been selected, an annual ethanol conference hosted by the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA). The NEC will take place Feb. 15–17, 2016 in New Orleans.

The IBF program recruits pre-screened foreign buyer delegations from U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide and brings them to selected trade shows and conferences in the U.S. as a medium to connect U.S. companies with international buyers. The NEC draws attendees from around the globe and next year’s event will see representatives from Brazil, China, India, Mexico and the Philippines.

“We are extremely excited about being selected to participate in the IBF, and for the opportunity to work closely with the Department of Commerce to provide a pathway that connects domestic ethanol producers with international markets,” said Edward Hubbard, RFA’s general counsel. “Export promotion is a crucial component for maintaining the vibrancy of the ethanol industry, and the NEC provides the perfect forum for accomplishing that goal. By joining forces with the Department of Commerce, the RFA is ensuring that the NEC will be the premier destination for U.S. ethanol producers who are interested in opportunities to promote their products in the international marketplace.”

Registration for the National Ethanol Conference is now open and will headlined by John Hofmeister, the founder and CEO of Citizens for Affordable Energy, former president of Shell Oil Company and author of “Why We Hate the Oil Companies“.