April 21 - 23, 2026 at the La Quinta Resort & Club, Palm Springs, CA
Join ASTA for an unforgettable experience at the 2026 Annual Meeting & Exhibits in Palm Springs, California, from April 21-23. Experience the perfect blend of education and networking at the premier global spice industry event. Set against the serene backdrop of the Palm Springs desert, this meeting is your opportunity to immerse yourself in ASTA’s unique culture while creating lasting connections with trade colleagues and friends.
The ASTA Board of Directors and various committees will meet throughout the week. See the schedule here.
Join ASTA friends and colleagues for a round of golf on the Dunes Course.
The fee of $250 includes green costs, a cart with GPS, the use of the practice facility, and a boxed lunch. Proceeds go to the Susan L. Abbott Memorial Scholarship fund.
This optional Pre-Conference Symposium on The Role of Spices in the Make America Healthy Again Initiative will dig into spice benefits and how the industry can align with U.S. policy goals to naturally add flavor and color to whole, nutritious foods.
Learn more.
The fee of $295 (members) and $595 (non-members) includes lunch.
Don't miss this warm welcome to Palm Springs, opening remarks from the ASTA President and a special one-off performance bringing the energy of Coachella to ASTA.
Reconnect with long-time colleagues, chat with new friends, and connect with the 2026 exhibitors as you enjoy an evening of festival-themed fun, while enjoying locally inspired food and drinks.
All first timers are invited to join this welcome reception. Break the ice, make new connections, and enjoy food and drinks with a fiesta vibe.
Hosted by the Membership Outreach Committee
Not ready to end your day? Join colleagues for a drink and snacks at the newly debuted Nightcaps & Networking event.
Hosted by the Associate Group
Join a dialogue with top trade experts from the Trump and Biden administrations and the Government of India on the latest policy and tariff dynamics shaping global spice supply chains.
Moderated by incoming ASTA President and McCormick Chief Procurement Officer Donald Pratt.
This session will explore cutting-edge AI weather forecasting methods, climate drivers, and their long-term implications for major spice-growing regions
Regional panels on Egyptian, Turkish and Indian herbs and seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and vanilla.
Optional: Grab your lunch and join colleagues in the general session room for moderated topic-specific roundtables with industry peers.
Calling all technical and regulatory spice professionals!
Join us for ASTA’s first dedicated Technical Forum, featuring a Regulatory Round-Up & Advocacy Update, key highlights from ASTA’s technical committees, and a panel on multi-hurdle validation strategies.
Connect with fellow attendees in the Exhibit area and collect tasting notes while sampling a local collection of wines.
Shake off your morning hangover with breakfast, coffee, and a competitive teambuilding challenge to build bikes for a local children’s charity.
Elect the 2026-2027 Board of Directors and discuss ASTA’s exciting future. The 2026 Marty Mitchell Outstanding Service Award and Susan L. Abbott Scholarship recipients will be announced at this time.
The All India Spice Exporters Forum will share a video report on the latest developments in the red pepper market followed by a regional panel discussion, an important update on the ASTA capsaicin method and Q&A.
This session begins with a video report on garlic and onion created by ASTA with data anonymously submitted by members and external experts, followed by a moderated discussion among industry experts and Q&A.
This session begins with a video report on black pepper created by ASTA with data anonymously submitted by members and external experts, followed by a moderated discussion among industry experts and Q&A.
Join the premier social event of the week at Old Hollywood star Greta Garbo’s former home. Experience a glamorous, opulent night filled with music, dinner, interactive experiences, and free-flowing drinks.
President & CEO
The Acheson Group
Research Agricultural Engineer
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Export & Sales Manager
Uyar Spice
Business Head
Jayanti
Director of Analytical Chemistry
ofi (Olam Food Ingredients)
Executive Vice President, Government Affairs
American Frozen Food Institute
Senior Manager of Regulatory and Scientific Affairs
American Spice Trade Association
ASTA General Counsel
Partner at Hogan Lovells
Technical Director
Sensient Natural Ingredients
Chair and CEO
BCFoods
Chief Scientific Officer
Eurofins
Former USTR Chief Ag Negotiator
Chief Procurement Officer
McCormick and Company
Senior Atmospheric Scientist
Nutrien Ag Solutions
CEO
Drumfire
Partner
Akin
CEO
Giza Seeds & Herbs
Executive Director
American Spice Trade Association
Partner
King & Spalding
Managing Director
China Spice Services Ltd.
This full-day symposium held in advance of the 2026 Annual Meeting & Exhibits will explore how spices can play a pivotal role in advancing the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) agenda. From health policy to regulatory trends, consumer research, and practical applications of using spices for color and as alternatives to salt and sugar, attendees will walk away with a clear understanding of how the spice sector can naturally add flavor and color to whole, healthy foods.
$295 for Members & $595 for Non-Members
This is an add-on event available only for registered attendees of the 2026 ASTA Annual Meeting & Exhibits.
Please Note: This is a developing agenda, and topics, timing, and speakers are subject to change.
This opening session will set the stage for the day by exploring evolving ingredient laws and regulations on the state and federal level, shifting consumer expectations, and heightened attention to food safety and consumer perceptions.
Discover how spices can help product developers and culinary professionals advance healthier foods without sacrificing flavor. This session will cover practical examples and real-world reformulation strategies that support innovation while meeting consumer expectations for both taste and nutrition.
In this panel, academic and policy experts will discuss emerging science on spices and health in the areas of heart health, cognition, metabolic health, cancer prevention, gut health, and weight management, as well as the role of spices in promoting the consumption of whole and nutritious foods and recognition in nutrition policy.
Many leading CPG companies have announced plans to phase out the use of synthetic colors in flagship food products. This panel session will bring together diverse perspectives on regulatory considerations, market pressures, practical issues, and strategies to reformulate foods and beverages with spices and spice derivatives.
This session dives into the latest market insights on consumer attitudes toward spices as natural sources of color and flavor, concerns about heavy metals and contaminants, and the potential for spices to make whole, nutritious foods more appealing.
Learn strategies to elevate the health benefits of spices, align messaging with emerging policy priorities, and navigate key watchouts as the MAHA agenda continues to evolve.
President & CEO
The Acheson Group
Executive Director of Global Regulatory Affairs
Kalsec, Inc.
CEO
Drumfire
ASTA General Counsel
Partner at Hogan Lovells
Register today for the spice industry’s premier annual gathering featuring expert insights, global market intelligence, and unparalleled networking with 500+ industry leaders.
Early Bird Register by March 17 |
Regular Register by April 15 |
$1,495 Member |
$1,595 Member |
$2,450 Non-member |
$2,575 Non-member |
Symposium |
$295 Member, $595 Non-member |
ASTA Golf Tournament |
$250 |
Charitable Build-a-Bike Challenge |
$50 |
Must be a spouse/partner of a registered attendee. Includes social events only. (See details below) |
$450 |
All credit card payments must be made online. If you do not have a login to the ASTA website or would like to pay via check or wire, please contact [email protected].
Online registration ends Wednesday, April 15, 2026. After that date, please contact [email protected] to register.
All refund/cancellation requests must be received in writing.
Refunds for payments made via check or wire will be processed after the event.
Attendee substitutions may be made before the event, provided the substitute is from the same organization.
Spouse registration is intended for family members over 18 years of age who are not employed by the member’s firm or active in the spice industry. Any individual employed by a spice company or active in the spice trade must register at the member or non-member rate. The spouse/partner registration includes only social events. Spouses are not permitted in the meeting sessions.
ASTA shall have a zero-tolerance policy for suitcasing at the ASTA Annual Meeting or any other ASTA event. Violators may be subject to the potential penalties as outlined in the ASTA Suitcasing Policy, available here.
ASTA may take photographs or film during the event. By participating in the event, you authorize ASTA, without limitation, the right to reproduce, copy, exhibit, publish, or distribute any such film or photograph and waive all rights or claims you may have against ASTA and/or any of its Affiliates, Subsidiaries, or Assignees.
By completing this event registration form, ASTA is collecting your name, email, address, company affiliation, personal preferences, and payment information so that ASTA can facilitate, process, and confirm your registration for this event. Additionally, unless otherwise expressly requested by ASTA, by completing the following event registration form, your name, address, and company affiliation will be included in the ASTA event attendee list, provided electronically and in hardcopy to other ASTA event attendees and speakers. View ASTA’s Privacy Policy here.
Contact ASTA at [email protected] or 202-331-2460.
Experience the beauty of the Santa Rosa Mountains at La Quinta Resort & Club, a historic desert retreat and the venue for ASTA’s 2026 Annual Meeting & Exhibits.
49 – 499 Eisenhower Drive
La Quinta
CA 92253
1 (760) 564 4111
The ASTA group room rate is $299 plus tax (single occupancy), plus a discounted daily resort fee of $10. Please note breakfast is not included in this rate. Reserve your room online, or call 760.564.5711 EXT. 2 Diana Ramirez, Group Code: ZASTA.
The group room rate cut-off date is Friday, March 27, 2026, based on availability. ASTA recommends making room reservations as early as possible.
The room block is only available to registered 2026 ASTA Annual Meeting & Exhibits attendees. ASTA may remove your reservation from the block if you are not registered for the meeting.
Check-in: 4:00 pm
Check-out: 11:00 am
The closest airport is Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), approximately 40 minutes from the resort. There is No Hotel Shuttle. Taxi and rideshare services are available, as are car rental options. Self-parking is available at the resort tor $15 per day, and valet parking is available for $25 per day.
Enhance your company’s presence at 2026 Annual Meeting & Exhibits through a wide selection of sponsorship and exhibit opportunities. From signature sponsorships to tabletop exhibits and unique exclusive offerings, these options allow organizations to showcase their capabilities, connect with customers and partners, and engage directly with 500+ leaders shaping the global spice trade. Explore the options below to find the visibility and engagement level that best fits your goals.
Showcase your brand at the industry’s most influential annual event. Whether you’re looking for top-tier visibility, targeted promotional opportunities, or exclusive hosting moments, ASTA offers sponsorships to help your company stand out.
Platinum |
$6,000 non-exclusive |
Gold |
$4,000 non-exclusive |
Silver |
$2,500 non-exclusive |
Exclusive Sponsorships |
|
Lanyards |
$7,500 exclusive |
Hotel Room Key |
$7,500 exclusive |
Room Drop Amenity New! |
$7,500 exclusive |
Technology (Wi-Fi and audio visual) New! |
$7,500 exclusive |
Happy Hour with California Wine Tasting |
$5,000 exclusive |
First Timer Reception |
$5,000 exclusive |
Lunch (Wednesday Table Topics – Includes Two-Minute Company Promo) |
$5,000 exclusive |
Lunch (Thursday – Includes Two-Minute Company Promo) |
$5,000 exclusive |
Three-Minute Company Presentation During Crop Reports (Wednesday) |
$3,500 exclusive |
Three-Minute Company Presentation During Crop Reports (Thursday) |
$3,500 exclusive |
Contact ASTA about discounts on bundles if you are interested in more than one opportunity to elevate your brand’s presence.
To view information about ASTA’s exciting networking events, visit the Networking section.
Non-Exclusive Sponsorships |
|
Opening Ceremony and Welcome Reception |
$5,000 non-exclusive (minimum two sponsors) |
Closing Reception and Dinner: Old Hollywood The Golden Era |
$5,000 non-exclusive (minimum three sponsors) |
Symposium |
$2,500 non-exclusive |
Committee Dinner |
$2,500 non-exclusive |
Daily Drawing for Prizes |
$2,000 non-exclusive |
Nightcaps and Networking on Tuesday Evening |
$1,000 non-exclusive (Associate members only) |
ASTA Golf Tournament |
$1,000 non-exclusive |
Please log in before proceeding with online payment.
For check and wire payments, please download the Sponsorship Agreement and follow the instructions.
Exhibiting at ASTA’s Annual Meeting, the spice industry’s preeminent yearly event, is a fantastic way to promote your brand, build new connections, and strengthen existing relationships with the spice industry! Join ASTA in Palm Springs, where spice suppliers, brokers, importers, producers, and manufacturers will gather for informative education and exciting networking.
All exhibitors must register for the meeting and pay the registration fees for each individual attending, in addition to the tabletop exhibit fees listed below.
The Exhibitor Planning Guide answers many frequently asked questions about exhibiting and provides a helpful checklist to help prepare for Palm Springs.
| Rates |
|---|
Member tabletop $1,500 |
Non-member tabletop $3,000 |
Exhibit space is assigned once payment is received. For check or wire payments, please complete the Exhibitor Contract and email it to [email protected] or print and mail it with your check payment to:
American Spice Trade Association 1101 17th Street NW, Ste. 700 Washington, DC 20036 USA
Exhibits will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. The above floor plan is not presented live and will be updated regularly as commitments are secured. Exhibits are open during meal functions and networking breaks. Exhibit hours may be subject to change.
Questions? Phone: (202) 331-2460 | Email: [email protected]
Make the most of your time at La Quinta Resort & Club in Palm Springs. In addition to ASTA’s planned networking events including golf, evening receptions, and our Charitable Build-a-Bike Challenge, attendees can enjoy the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the Coachella Valley. Explore nearby nature hikes, unwind at the world-class spa, browse boutique shopping, or discover iconic art and architecture. There’s no shortage of experiences to enhance your visit.
Separate registration required; Limited availability
Join ASTA friends and colleagues for a round of golf on the Dunes Course. This 72 -par course, designed by Pete Dye, offers traditional rolling-links style golf with Scottish and Irish flair, characterized by rolling mounds, manicured fairways and thick rough. The course hosted the PGA Club Professional Championship and the Californian State Open. The fee of $250 includes green costs, a cart with GPS, the use of the practice facility, and a boxed lunch.
New to the agenda, one you will not want to miss! This opening ceremony will include a traditional welcome to Palm Springs, brief welcome remarks from the ASTA President and a special one-off performance to bring the energy and vibes of Coachella to the ASTA Annual Meeting & Exhibits.
Reconnect with long-time colleagues, chat with new friends, and connect with the 2026 exhibitors as you enjoy an evening of festival fun. Revel in Coachella inspired festival vibes while mingling in the Exhibit area, enjoying locally inspired food and drinks.
The Membership Outreach committee welcomes all first timers to join this event to help introduce them to the event and make new connections. Enjoy Fiesta inspired food and drinks.
Not ready to end your day, then come join others for a final drink at the Associate Groups hosted nightcaps and networking event. Enjoy light nibbles and a nightcap.
Connect with fellow attendees in the Exhibit area and collect tasting notes while sampling a local collection of wines.
The perfect cure for that Thursday morning hangover! Join us for strong coffee AND for the chance to win coveted bragging rights. Teams will compete against the clock and each other to win bicycle parts to build a fully functional child’s bicycle. All teams will assemble a bike that will be donated to a local children’s charity, making this bonding team activity not only a fun experience but one that will make an impact locally. Prizes will be on offer in addition to those all-important bragging rights.
Join the premier social event of the week, marking the close of the industry’s experience together at the event in Palm Springs. Hosted at Greta Garbo’s old home, accept our invitation to join the Hollywood Rat Pack at this star-studded event. Rub shoulders with the stars while enjoying the glamour of Palm Springs with a night full of music, opulent interactive experiences, and free flowing drink and food. Hollywood-inspired attire is encouraged.
Palm Springs isn’t just a sun-soaked desert getaway—it’s a vibrant playground for adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills, architectural inspiration, or a relaxing day by the pool, Palm Springs offers an unforgettable array of activities for every traveler.
The desert landscape of Palm Springs provides endless opportunities to explore. Hike the scenic trails of Indian Canyons, where towering palm oases meet rugged desert cliffs. Take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, ascending to Mount San Jacinto State Park for cooler temperatures, panoramic views, and alpine hiking.
Palm Springs is a living museum of midcentury modern design. Architectural tours showcase iconic homes and commercial spaces by designers like Albert Frey and Richard Neutra, while the Palm Springs Art Museum offers an extensive collection of contemporary and Native American art. Film buffs can explore the city’s glamorous Hollywood connections on curated walking tours highlighting historic theaters, celebrity homes, and iconic landmarks.
From upscale boutiques and stylish home décor shops to quirky vintage stores, Palm Springs has something for every shopper. Food lovers can savor everything from gourmet dining at award-winning restaurants to casual café fare in downtown Palm Springs.
For further things to do, please see here.
Indulge in the luxury of La Quinta’s Spa – the spa blends the most effective technologies with the world’s best skin care products to bring you an unparalleled experience of beautification, peace, and comfort. For further information and how to book, please see here.
The Board of Directors and Committees will meet throughout the week in Palm Springs. These meetings are closed to Board and Committee Members, as well as invited guests. If you would like to learn more about leadership, committees, or to be invited to join a committee meeting as guest, please send an email to [email protected].
The Board of Directors will meet to discuss strategic direction, governance and financial oversight of the association. Other items on the agenda include member engagement and planning for future challenges and opportunities for the spice industry.
The Science and Regulatory Committee focuses on the scientific and regulatory issues affecting the spice industry. It works to stay abreast of relevant laws, regulations, and scientific developments, providing members with crucial resources to navigate complex compliance landscapes.
The Education Leadership Council aligns ASTA’s educational programs with strategic priorities and coordinates cross-committee efforts across regulatory, technical, sustainability, and trade content.
ASTA invites all current committee members to an off-site dinner in appreciation of the valuable time and commitment that ASTA volunteers dedicate to achieving the success of ASTA's strategic objectives throughout the year.
The Analytical Methods Subcommittee meets to review, update and draft ASTA's analytical methods.
This event is being hosted by the Membership Outreach Committee. Members of this committee are encouraged to attend this event to help welcome new members. This is also an excellent opportunity to meet non-members and talk to them about the benefits of becoming a member.
The Spice Integrity Committee is dedicated to upholding and promoting the integrity of spices sold in the U.S. market. It focuses on quality assurance, authenticity verification, and adulteration prevention, ensuring that consumers receive safe and high-quality spice products.
The new Board of Directors will meet for a brief orientation of new directors and to elect officers.
The Sustainability Committee helps to define “sustainability” for the U.S. spice industry. They will meet to develop education and resources that promote sustainability in the spice sector.
