Advocacy

ASTA ensures U.S. lawmakers and regulators understand the views of ASTA members as policy decisions are being made. ASTA provides a voice and critical link to regulators and lawmakers on the federal level (and state level as necessary) and advocates proactively on a variety of issues of importance to the spice trade.

ASTA’s core focus is liaising with federal regulatory agencies on the development of requirements that impact the spice industry. ASTA works with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) and other U.S. agencies when necessary in order to best represent the U.S. spice industry. ASTA submits comments and letters on proposed rules and regulations, and meets with government officials, as part of our effort to make sure that the spice industry is at the table and actively participating as decisions are made on compliance and enforcement issues.

On the legislative front, when there is an issue that directly impacts the spice industry, ASTA staff tracks pending activity and keeps ASTA members apprised of any issues affecting the industry. ASTA educates legislators about the ASTA’s positions and collaborates with industry coalitions on key issues.

Global Leadership and Coalitions

Comments & Positions

ASTA represents the U.S. spice industry domestically and within the global market. As the lead of the International Organization of Spice Trade Associations (IOSTA), ASTA fosters collaboration on global issues impacting the spice sector. Policymakers can learn more about the U.S. spice industry by downloading the About ASTA document.
ASTA partners with other organizations in coalitions to be part of a larger voice and have a greater impact. ASTA provides comments to U.S. agencies when issues impact the spice industry. See ASTA’s positions on key issues here.