As the fresh produce industry converges for Viva Fresh 2026, the atmosphere is defined by more than just trade—it is defined by a “North Star” of connection with purpose. According to Dante Galeazzi, President and CEO of the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA), this year’s expo acts as a vital catalyst for smarter collaboration during an era of unprecedented complexity.
Viva Fresh 2026 will be at JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, on April 16-18.
“As our industry navigates more complexity than ever—from trade and labor to technology and consumer expectations—the need for intentional, high-value connections has never been greater,” says Galeazzi. By focusing on the Tex-Mex corridor, Viva Fresh 2026 aims to strengthen supply chains and drive economic growth that resonates nationwide.
Navigating the Cross-Border Evolution
Central to this year’s mission is the evolution of the Texas-Mexico trade relationship. Recognizing that these two regions are “inseparable,” the expo has doubled down on education regarding cross-border logistics and regulatory shifts. By bringing customs brokers, logistics providers, and importers into direct dialogue with growers and buyers, Viva Fresh creates a trusted space to align expectations and adapt to the rapid pace of change.
Advocacy and the Road Ahead
Looking toward the next 24 months, Galeazzi identifies the “pace of change” as the industry’s greatest disruptor. Whether facing shifts in trade policy or labor dynamics, TIPA’s goal remains focused on modernizing advocacy.
When it comes to federal policy, Galeazzi’s message for independent grocers and wholesalers is clear: the industry needs clarity, consistency, and collaboration. By urging policymakers to recognize the unique realities of perishable products, Viva Fresh 2026 stands as a unified front, ensuring that the backbone of the food supply chain remains stable, efficient, and inclusive for years to come.
Related Article: Hunter Pinke Joins Viva Fresh 2026 Lineup
Empowering Leadership: The Year of the Woman Farmer
A cornerstone of the 2026 program is the celebration of the International Year of the Woman Farmer. For Galeazzi, the message to the industry is urgent: women are not merely participants; they are the innovators and decision-makers essential to agriculture’s survival.
However, TIPA is moving beyond symbolic recognition toward concrete action. Through In Bloom, TIPA’s dedicated initiative, the association is fostering mentorship, sponsorship, and intentional pathways into executive roles and board service. “Real progress happens when companies intentionally invest in women’s growth and ensure they have a seat—and a voice—at the tables where decisions are made,” Galeazzi notes.