Dr. Ribera's primary responsibilities are statewide international trade and transportation issues as well as feasibility studies, economics impacts and risk analysis.

Dr. Ribera has worked in feasibility studies for all major row crops in south Texas and specialty crops such as fruits and vegetables. His most recent work in tomato includes feasibility studies under the Food Safety Modernization Act for small, medium and large tomato producers in Texas, California, and Florida and feasibility studies of locally grown tomato sold trough direct-to-consumer outlets such as farmers markets and community supported agriculture.

Also, Dr. Ribera is working on economic impacts and infrastructure needs on the increased produce trade through Texas ports of entry.