The U.S. rice industry will have a California voice on a newly formed advisory committee to the Federal Maritime Commission. The 24-member group will advise FMC on policies related to the competitiveness, reliability, integrity, and fairness of the international ocean freight system.

Chris Crutchfield, president and chief executive officer of American Commodity Company in Williams, Calif., will serve a three-year term on the committee. Crutchfield will represent the U.S. rice industry on the committee as a handler and marketer of rice.

In a statement published by USA Rice, Crutchfield said he was "humbled and excited to serve on this vital advisory group given all the shipping issues our industry continues to face."

His appointment was lauded by USA Rice president and CEO Betsy Ward.

"Chris's appointment to this important committee gives the rice industry a key voice in maritime issues and is a recognition of his experience and expertise as a major exporter of U.S. grown rice," she said.

The California rice industry likewise hailed his appointment to the committee.

“Chris being appointed to the committee is excellent news," said Tim Johnson, president, and CEO of the California Rice Commission. "Ocean freight has long been a crucial issue for our industry, and the recent shipping delays have been extremely challenging. Chris has the knowledge to strongly represent rice and other agricultural commodities moving forward."

The committee will further advise the FMC based on insight, expertise, and information from the 24-member group representing U.S. importers and U.S. exporters who rely upon common ocean carriers.

According to the FMC, the commission will work to balance membership on the committee to include commodities shipped, ports and geographic areas served, and origins of cargo.