Fragrance Notes Issue 2, 2018 | Page 30

EVENTS & MEETINGS President & CEO Farah K. Ahmed Speaks at 2018 Air Care Summit Fragrance Creators Association President and CEO Farah K. Ahmed presented at the first-ever HCPA Air Care Summit, which took place as part of HCPA’s annual mid-year meeting on May 18, 2018 at the Gaylord National Resort in National Harbor, Maryland. The Summit was aimed at improving “understanding of what consumers are expecting from brands, fostering discussion of the benefits of air care products and illustrating ways diverse stakeholders can work effectively to educate consumers, workers and the media.” Ahmed provided an overview of the fragrance industry, its safety program, and the complex regulatory requirements fragrances must meet. She also invited attendees to reengage with association under its new name and branding—formerly known as IFRANA, now Fragrance Creators—and explained how building trust and sharing values are key to our future efforts in debunking false information, promoting, protecting, and endearing everyone to fragrance and fragranced products. Fragrance Creators Meets with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross In May 2018, President & CEO of Fragrance Creators Association Farah K. Ahmed joined industry leaders to meet with United States Secretary of Commerce, Wilbur Ross. President Trump relies heavily on Secretary Ross, and the Secretary advises on international trade issues as well as regulatory activity and reform. Secretary Ross offered insights on trade and emphasized the need to protect intellectual property, both of which are important to the fragrance industry. He also discussed the Administration’s approach to the federal regulatory framework and how agencies are working together to assess and streamline existing and potential regulations. Secretary Ross’ business experience includes a chemical distribution company, so he was eager to learn more about fragrance innovation and difficulties with EPA’s administration of its New Chemicals Program. The Secretary encouraged us to continue to communicate our needs with the Commerce Department. Fragrance Creators looks forward to future opportunites to further engage with the Administration. FN 30 | FRAGRANCENOTES.ORG | Issue 2, 2018