California Ag Network

Category: Ag Economics

  • Student Ambassador, Samantha Gambonini to Share California Dairy Messages with International Audience

    Samantha Gambonini of Petaluma has been selected to represent the California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB) in South Korea during the 2024 CMAB International Internship Program.

    Gambonini was chosen based on academic achievement, her connection to the California dairy industry, and her willingness to travel abroad to learn more about international dairy sales and marketing. The goal of the International Internship Program is to provide young agriculture and dairy college students an opportunity to learn about dairy foods and marketing in the international marketplace, with a focus on developing leaders who will serve on dairy industry boards, work in dairy foods processing, or in sales or marketing.

    Over the six week period, Gambonini will spend time with in-country CMAB marketing organizations in South Korea to gain a better understanding of markets, consumer buying habits, and promotional efforts on behalf of California’s dairy industry.

    “California currently accounts for around 33 percent of all U.S. dairy exports so international trade is essential for our continued growth. Over the last decade and a half, the CMAB has worked closely with partners in South Korea to develop markets for California dairy products. This program is focused on providing insight into international dairy marketing for future leaders,” said Glenn Millar, Director of International Business Development for the CMAB.

    Gambonini is currently working towards her B.S. in Agricultural Education at Washington State University, where she serves as the Social Media and Events Coordinator for the Young Farmers and Ranchers Club, as well as an Officer for the Agricultural Education Club. Gambonini was an active member of FFA, where she showed dairy cattle and served as the North Coast Region FFA President and Vice President. She also served as District 2 Dairy Princess from 2021 to 2022. Upon completion of the internship program, she will continue to advocate for the dairy industry, and hopes to incorporate this passion into her career.

    California is the nation’s leading milk producer, and makes more butter, ice cream and nonfat dry milk than any other state. California is the second-largest producer of cheese and yogurt. California milk and dairy foods can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which certifies they are made with milk from the state’s dairy farm families.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world through advertising, public relations, research, and retail and foodservice promotional programs. For more information and to connect with the CMAB, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, X and Pinterest.

  • Almond Leadership Program Raises Over $21,000 for FFA Scholarships

    The Almond Board of California’s Almond Leadership Program (ALP) swung into action once again, hosting its annual golf tournament on Thursday, May 2, at the Dragonfly Golf Club in Madera. With 32 teams comprising a total of 128 enthusiastic golfers, the event teed off at 8 in the morning and concluded with triumph and camaraderie at 2 in the afternoon.

    The day wasn’t just about perfecting that swing or sinking that elusive putt; it was about rallying together for a common cause — supporting the future of agriculture. This year’s tournament proved to be a hole-in-one for fundraising efforts, as it soared past the $21,000 mark. Every penny raised will be funneled into FFA scholarships, ensuring that budding agriculturalists have the financial support they need to nurture their dreams and ambitions.

    The winning quartet, comprising of Ian Hudson, Mark Mallin, Danny Miller, and Max Sparrer, showcased not only their golfing prowess but also their commitment to the cause. Meanwhile, the event’s success owes much to the dedication of ALP program participants Zac Days and Ryan McCoon, who served as co-chairs, steering the tournament towards success.

    The tournament provided a platform for industry members and FFA students alike to converge, forging bonds and making memories — all while championing a cause close to their hearts. The significance of these scholarships, as highlighted by ABC’s Rebecca Bailey, cannot be overstated. “College is expensive, so being able to support students as they pursue higher education will help to ease financial and stress-related burdens,” she emphasized.

    In the grand tapestry of California agriculture, events like the ALP’s golf tournament serve as threads that bind communities together, weaving a future with promise and possibility.

    For those interested in joining the ranks of future agricultural leaders, applications for the 2025 Almond Leadership Program will begin to be accepted in October. For more information, reach out to Rebecca Bailey at rbailey@almondboard.com.

    In the end, it’s not just about sinking putts; it’s about raising hopes, one swing at a time. — By the Almond Board of California

  • USDA Funding to Address Specialty Crop Export Challenges

    U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor today announced the availability of funding for the first five projects under the new Assisting Specialty Crop Exports (ASCE) initiative.

    The ASCE initiative is part of USDA’s commitment to create more, new and better markets at home and abroad for U.S. producers and agribusinesses. The innovative partnership between USDA and the specialty crops sector will focus on projects to address the non-tariff trade barriers that hinder U.S. exports of fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, horticultural crops and related products.

    “Today, USDA is committing more than $20 million to support U.S. specialty crop exporters in their efforts to overcome trade barriers and open overseas markets,” Under Secretary Taylor said. “We’re excited to be accepting proposals from partners interested in implementing projects that will target cross-cutting issues that were identified in our discussions with a diverse set of stakeholders. U.S. specialty crop exports totaled $25.8 billion last year, increasing the bottom line for our producers and driving economic development in their local communities and beyond. With the ASCE initiative, we look forward to expanding specialty crop exports and generating even greater benefits.”

    The project opportunities for which USDA is accepting applications are:

    Sustainable Packaging Innovation Lab – to support research and implementation projects that advance U.S. specialty crop exports through innovative solutions to emerging overseas regulatory requirements for packaging and labeling;

    Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) Regional Harmonization – to address existing and potential trade needs in Asia, Latin America, and Africa related to MRLs for U.S. specialty crops entering these regions, while supporting development of risk-based and trade-facilitative policies that are consistent with international standards such as Codex;

    Import MRL Guideline Implementation in Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economies – to support establishment of import MRLs in key U.S. export markets through the adoption and implementation of official APEC MRL guidelines that facilitate trade and are consistent with international standards such as Codex;

    Data Generation for Codex and Harmonized MRL Setting – to reduce the number of missing and misaligned MRLs by supporting collaborative research and data generation capacity for the establishment of Codex MRLs; and

    MRL Quick Reference Sheets for Specialty Crops – to develop a set of quick reference sheets for specialty crop exporters that include MRLs for the top foreign markets.

    After touring the packaging materials lab at the University of Wisconsin-Stout today, Under Secretary Taylor said, “The work being accomplished by these students and researchers will help create innovative, sustainable packaging materials that will help specialty crop exporters meet the requirements of our trading partners and extend the shelf-life of their products to ensure cost-competitive, highly nutritious American products move safely  from our farm to consumers’ plates globally.”

    For more information about the ASCE initiative and the current funding opportunity, visit: https://fas.usda.gov/programs/assisting-specialty-crop-exports-asce-initiative

    USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

  • Dr. Ty Wagoner Welcomed As Senior Manager Of California Dairy Innovation Center

    The California Milk Advisory Board’s California Dairy Innovation Center (CDIC) has announced the addition of Dr. Ty Wagoner as Senior Manager, a new position at CDIC.

    Dr. Wagoner brings over 10 years of experience in dairy products research and innovation to the role. He got his start as a trained chef at the California School of Culinary Arts before obtaining his BS, MS, and PhD in Food Science from North Carolina State University. His career includes dairy ingredients research at NC State, two years working with Fonterra’s R&D Center (NZ) as a part of the Transforming the Dairy Value Chain Primary Growth Partnership, and a stint leading ingredient innovation in the precision fermentation industry. Dr. Wagoner’s extensive background includes the formulation of new beverages, snacks, cheese products and novel ingredients. He also led strategic initiatives and worked extensively cross-functionally with R&D and operations teams.

    “Ty’s proven record of driving innovation and his deep understanding of the dairy technology landscape make him an invaluable addition to the CDIC team,” said John Talbot, CEO of the California Milk Advisory Board. “This new position will play a pivotal part in our expanding innovation ecosystem.”

    As Senior Manager, Wagoner will help guide CDIC’s initiatives to support processors and entrepreneurs; develop projects focused on product, process and packaging innovation; and collaborate with CDIC’s partnering academic institutions.

    “I’m honored to join the CDIC and contribute to its mission of advancing the dairy industry through innovation,” said Wagoner. “I’m enthusiastic about the industry’s potential and look forward to collaborating with the team to grow opportunities identified for the dairy processing community in California.”

    Dr. Wagoner’s appointment underscores CDIC’s dedication to recruiting and developing top-tier talent to drive progress and innovation within the dairy industry, providing technical support to processors and entrepreneurs, and strengthening academic institutions in the state. Information about the California Dairy Innovation Center and its initiatives is available at cdic.net.

    California is the nation’s leading milk producer, and makes more butter, ice cream and nonfat dry milk than any other state. California is the second-largest producer of cheese and yogurt. California milk and dairy foods can be identified by the Real California Milk seal, which certifies they are made with milk from the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable farming practices.

    About Real California Milk/California Milk Advisory Board

    The California Milk Advisory Board (CMAB), an instrumentality of the California Department   of Food and Agriculture, is funded by the state’s dairy farm families who lead the nation in sustainable dairy farming practices. With a vision to nourish the world with the wholesome goodness of Real California Milk, the CMAB’s programs focus on increasing demand for California’s sustainable dairy products in the state, across the U.S. and around the world through advertising, public relations, research, and retail and foodservice promotional programs. For more information and to connect with the CMAB, visit RealCaliforniaMilk.com, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

    About California Dairy Innovation Center

    The California Dairy Innovation Center coordinates pre-competitive research and educational training in collaboration with industry, check-off programs, and research/academic institutions throughout the state of California in support of a common set of innovation and productivity goals. A virtual organization created by the California Milk Advisory Board, the CDIC is guided by a Steering Committee that includes California Dairies Inc., California Dairy Research Foundation, California Milk Advisory Board, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Dairy Management Inc., Fresno State University, Hilmar Cheese, Leprino Foods, and UC Davis. The CDIC is primarily funded by California dairy producers through the California Milk Advisory Board.

  • Fresno State Jordan College Uncorks New Wine Business Degree

    Junior enology student Madasen Gutierrez got the opportunity for hands-on experience with all things related to wine at a recent Cedar View Winery position.

    The Dinuba native balanced a busy schedule for one and a half years that ranged from winemaking, assisting with finances, marketing, sales and hosting wine tasting events.

    Her time there led Gutierrez to discover that she enjoys the business and marketing side of the wine industry even more than the art of winemaking itself.

    “Wineries bring people together,” Gutierrez said, “and I enjoy seeing and being a part of that. It’s more than just the wine for many people. It’s also about making relationships and finding friends. Marketing ties directly into that appeal, while connecting consumers to products they might enjoy.”

    A new Fresno State wine business degree, being introduced by the Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology in fall 2024, will help prepare students like Gutierrez for an array of jobs in the ever-growing and renowned California wine industry, which employed 36,000 people in 2020. That number is almost twice what it was 20 years ago, with more than 40% of the nation’s wineries are found in California.

    Additional sales, marketing, branding, administrative and business personnel are also needed by leading wine producers such E. & J. Gallo, Constellation Brands, The Wine Group and Bronco Wine Company, which have processing locations in the San Joaquin Valley that supply customers around the world.

    “The business side is so crucial, just like the winemaking, so it’s great we have a chance to focus on both (with this degree),” Gutierrez said. “The wine industry is so unique and always changing, so the more you know about a company’s operation and market trends, the more successful you can be.”

    Students pursuing the new degree will integrate courses from Fresno State’s nationally-respected Viticulture and Enology Department in conjunction with its Agricultural Business Department and other departments across campus.

    Classes will be required in the areas of accounting, computer applications, economics, finance, management, marketing, regulations, statistics, viticulture, wine evaluation and production.

    Potential electives expand into the related areas of agri-food supply chains, cooperatives, exports, event planning, food policy, labor, natural resource policy and sales.

    “Our program is tightly connected to several generations of industry leaders” said Dr. Sonet Van Zyl, chair of the Department of Viticulture and Enology at Fresno State, “and this degree is something they’re very excited to see finally happen. We already have a nearly 100% placement rate with our winemaking students once they graduate through internships and jobs, and there’s an equally deep field of careers in the business side, too.”

    The Fresno State Winery, the nation’s first commercially bonded winery at a university and still the largest, offers diverse sales channels from wholesale to online and countless hands-on learning opportunities. Wine business students can engage with buyers; develop promotions; utilize industry applications; take part in internships, research partnerships and field trips; and learn from guest speakers.

    Kevin Smith, who earned his MBA from Fresno State, is equally excited about the new degree. The viticulture and enology lecturer will teach many of its classes and can share a first-hand perspective after he oversaw the Fresno State Winery’s sales and marketing from 2013 to 2023.

    “There are a handful of university programs tied to wine business to some degree,” Smith said, “but none locally, or that have the resources we have here on campus. Students have a 120-acre vineyard, a winery that produces 5,000 cases of wine each year and a raisin processing facility all next to their classrooms. It’s an industry that’s very competitive, and our department is excited to work with other areas on campus to grow with it.”

    Gutierrez and other students can access a department road map to see required and elective classes before they begin fall class registration, and can officially apply for the new degree this August.

    In the interim, interested students can apply now for the viticulture or enology undergraduate degrees and switch to the wine business degree in the fall. More information on the new degree is also available by emailing Van Zyl at svanzyl@csufresno.edu. — By Evenee Gonzalez-Burgos, Fresno State University

  • U.S. Ag Exporters Invited to Join Vietnam Trade Mission

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from current and potential U.S. exporters for a trade mission to Vietnam, Sept. 9-13, 2024. Participants will attend events in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, and will also have the opportunity to engage with visiting buyers from Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia and Thailand.

    “Markets in Southeast Asia hold immense opportunity for U.S. exporters,” said USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor. “In 2023, the United States exported $3.1 billion of agricultural products to Vietnam, maintaining a sizable market share across several food and ag-related categories, including cotton, dairy, distillers grains, fresh fruit, poultry, soybeans and tree nuts. Through the Vietnam trade mission, as well as new efforts with the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program and the Assisting Specialty Crop Exports initiative, USDA is confident that we can continue to help U.S. exporters grow and diversify their markets in Southeast Asia and boost economic returns for America’s farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses.”

    Trade mission participants will begin the week in Ho Chi Minh City and end it in Hanoi, connecting with key importers for business-to-business meetings and learning about local and regional market conditions through site visits and briefings by FAS staff, industry experts and government officials.

    To apply to participate in the mission, and to learn more about export opportunities in Vietnam and the Southeast Asia region, please click here. Applications must be submitted by Tuesday, June 4.

  • California Fruits and Vegetables Prove Some of the Safest in the World

    Newly released California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) data show that 97% of fresh fruit and vegetable samples collected and tested contain no illegal pesticide residue.

    The department’s 2022 California Pesticide Residue Monitoring Annual Report includes information on 3,281 produce samples collected from more than 500 businesses throughout California.

    Key findings from the report include:

    • 97% of fresh produce tested had no detectable pesticide residues or had residues below health-protective thresholds set by the federal government.
    • 37% of all samples collected had no detectable pesticide residues, while another 60% had residues below federal benchmarks. Just 3% of all samples had illegal residue levels.
    • Only 1% of domestically grown produce sampled and tested contained illegal residues.
    • No illegal residues were found on 78 types of produce tested, including highly consumed products like avocados and apples.
    • Of the illegal residues found, 82% were on imported produce.

    DPR samples produce from wholesale and retail outlets, distribution centers, and roadside and farmers markets. Samples include imported and domestically grown produce that have been both organic and conventionally farmed. When illegal detections are found, the department traces the produce back to the store, distributor and farmer. Produce with illegal detections are quarantined and may be destroyed to prevent further distribution of tainted products.

    Samples are analyzed by scientists at California Department of Food and Agriculture laboratories and tested for 500 types of pesticides and related compounds. The testing occurs on unwashed, unpeeled produce. Residue quantities above limits set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are illegal to sell. These limits are called “tolerances” and are set for specific pesticides found on specific crops.

    Violators may face fines or other penalties. In one case, results found through DPR’s monitoring led to a $10,000 fine levied by the Kern County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office for illegal use of multiple pesticides on strawberries.

    In gathering produce samples, special emphasis is given to the types of produce commonly consumed by children. The department also prioritizes produce varieties with a history of illegal pesticide residues, produce originating from countries with past illegal-residue detections, and products often treated with pesticides listed under Proposition 65 as carcinogens or reproductive toxins.

    Information about DPR’s food safety program, plus past reports, can be found here.

    Watch this YouTube video on the residue monitoring program.

  • Opportunities for U.S. Ag Products in Vietnam and Thailand

    USDA Foreign Ag Service — Vietnam offers abundant opportunities for exporting consumer-oriented products, despite the challenges of recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and dealing with high inflation. The Vietnamese economy is poised for significant expansion in the coming decades. With a burgeoning population and a growing middle class, Vietnamese consumers are becoming more discerning about the origin and composition of their food. As suppliers of safe and high-quality agricultural products, U.S. agricultural exporters are in a good position to bolster sales in the Vietnamese market for commodities such as tree nuts and dairy products. Vietnam also has growing sectors able to absorb high-value U.S. products such as retail, tourism, and food processing, and consumers are increasingly focused on health and wellness. For similar reasons, notably a growing middle class and strong domestic industries, there are also opportunities in Thailand for consumer-oriented agricultural products from the United States.

    Macroeconomic Perspective of Vietnam

    Vietnam, a country of 105 million people, is among the fastest growing economies in the world. In 2024, the real gross domestic product (GDP) growth of Vietnam is expected to stabilize – at 6.0 percent after reaching 8.1 percent in 2022. This growth is supported by the vast expansion in the services and industrial sectors and the continued recovery of tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic. The GDP per capita in 2023 was $4,284, an increase of $160 from 2022. According to the World Bank, interest rates in Vietnam remain steady due to domestic monetary policy actions. Vietnam is strategically located in Southeast Asia maintaining influentially positive regional ties. Overall, Vietnam is a dynamic market with a rapidly growing middle class and young population influenced by global consumer patterns, rising per capita income, and an expanding economy in key sectors such as retail, tourism, and food processing.

    Vietnam Agricultural Trade Overview

    In 2023, Vietnam imported $32 billion of agricultural products from the world. Imports have increased over the past three years as Vietnam recovered from COVID-19 related trade and travel disruptions. In 2023, the top suppliers of agricultural products to Vietnam were China, Brazil, and the United States, followed by Australia, India, and Cambodia. Over the last thirty years, Vietnam has ratified several regional and bilateral Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with major trading partners. Where trading partners do not have an FTA in place, Most Favored Nation tariff levels apply.

    Opportunities for U.S. Exports to Vietnam

    Robust opportunities exist for U.S. agricultural products thanks to projected overall market growth and strong preference for high-quality, safe U.S. goods. The United States exported $3.1 billion in agricultural products to Vietnam in 2023, the third largest agricultural product exporter to Vietnam behind China and Brazil. Top exports were in bulk commodities related to feed and manufacturing. While these products make up a large portion of the U.S. market share, many consumer-oriented goods are also among top products exported and represent exciting growth opportunities. Despite a rapidly growing middle class and preference for U.S. high-quality products, Vietnam is a price sensitive market.

    Demand for high-value consumer-oriented products

    Vietnamese consumers demand high-quality and safe products. U.S. exporters of consumer-oriented products are well poised to fill this demand as both the population and the middle class continue to grow. U.S. products are sold at various levels – retail, hotel, and food processing– all growing industries in Vietnam. In 2022, Vietnam’s retail sales increased by 13 percent, the hotel, restaurant, and institutional (HRI) market grew by 51 percent, and the food processing and manufacturing sector grew by 9 percent. According to Euromonitor International, Vietnam’s HRI sector is comprised of over 330,000 outlets in the following subsectors: restaurants, bakeries, cafés and bars, street stalls, hotels, and institutional catering services. Consumer-oriented U.S. products are also further used as ingredients in Vietnam’s food processing sector. Food processing ingredients include dairy products, other edible bovine products, processed fruits, tree nuts, peanuts, and potatoes.

    Dairy Products

    In 2023, U.S. exports of dairy products to Vietnam were $146 million. Non-fat dried milk powder and fresh cheese represent high value prospects for U.S. exporters. While cheese is typically not consumed as part of the traditional diet, food service establishments and the exposure of younger generations to global diets continue to drive the demand for both hard and soft cheeses. According to Euromonitor International, an increasing consumer focus on healthy living is also bolstering the demand for higher protein and calcium cheeses like packaged hard cheese but may present challenges for cheeses with higher sodium and saturated fat contents. Non-fat dried milk powder for use in nutritional drinks and reconstituted milk are also popular in Vietnam and offer a safe and shelf-stable alternative to fresh milk. Other dairy products with good export potential include lactose and whey, which currently constitute 17 percent and 10 percent of U.S. dairy exports to Vietnam respectively.

    Fresh Fruits

    Vietnam holds high market potential for increased exports of fresh fruits from the United States. Exports of U.S. fresh fruits in 2023 reached $105 million (a 13-percent decrease from 2022 due, in part, to domestic inflation) and consisted mainly of apples, cherries, and grapes. USDA worked with other USG agencies to gain market access for U.S. grapefruit in February 2023. In total, Vietnam has granted access for seven fresh fruits of U.S.-origin: apples, cherries, grapes, pears, blueberries, oranges, and grapefruit. Imported fruits will become increasingly popular as their affordability improves because of economic growth and as Vietnamese consumers adopt healthier diets.

    Meat Products

    As the economy and international tourism continue to rebound, consumption of imported meat is expected to grow in both value and volume in the coming years. According to Euromonitor International, the increased focus on health and fitness is also fueling a shift towards leaner proteins such as chicken, although demand for red meat remains strong. High-prospect meat products include frozen/chilled beef (boneless and bone-in), frozen chicken (leg quarters, legs, and paws), and turkey. Price competitive imported frozen products do well over local chilled options.

    Processed Products

    In 2023, Vietnam was the United States’ 11th largest market for processed agricultural products. Fifteen years ago, it was the 24th largest market. Products with high growth over the period include processed egg products, chocolate and confectionary, non-alcoholic beverages, pet food, condiments and sauces, processed vegetables, and snack foods. According to the FAS Exporter Guide for Vietnam (VM2023-0074), the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in many shifts in the shopping habits of Vietnamese consumers. One such shift is the increased purchase of shelf-stable foods using online shopping and door-to-door delivery services, with e-commerce sales increasing 26 percent in 2022.

    Condiments and sauces: According to Euromonitor International, pickled, and low-salt products have high potential in the Vietnamese market. Overall, the country is becoming more health conscious, and the government is trying to reduce the incidence of noncommunicable disease. These goals have shifted demand to lower sodium condiments and sauces, as well as plant-based products, dairy-free products, sugar-free products, and products with fewer ingredients.

    Processed fruits and vegetables: Dried and processed fruits are used domestically as ingredients and for snacking. Increasing demand for healthy foods will continue driving consumption as local production is unable to keep up with domestic demand. While Vietnam is a large producer of vegetables, food manufacturers in Vietnam use a mix of locally produced raw materials and imported food ingredients in their operations. The top selling U.S. products in this category are raisins and frozen potatoes.

    Tree Nuts

    Tree nuts are the fifth largest U.S. agricultural export to Vietnam. In 2023, U.S. tree nut exports reached $238 million, a 37-percent increase over 2022. Major U.S. exports include pistachios, almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pecans. Recovery of the manufacturing and tourism sectors has increased demand for U.S. tree nuts. While demand remains strong, when imported for local consumption, tree nuts are subject to import tariffs from 8 to 30 percent. However, most U.S. tree nuts imported into Vietnam are further processed and re-exported to third countries and are therefore exempted from import tariffs.

    Opportunities for U.S. Consumer-Oriented Goods in Thailand

    Many opportunities for U.S. consumer-oriented good exports also exist in Thailand, which boasts the fourth highest per capita income in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations after Singapore, Brunei, and Malaysia. With a population of 70 million and real GDP growth of 3.0 percent forecast in 2024 compared to 2.5 percent in 2022, private consumption is expected to grow with the expansion of the middle class. GDP growth is forecast to reach 3.5 percent by 2027.2 As much of the Thai economy relies on tourism, post-pandemic recovery is paramount for continued economic growth. After a period of high consumer price inflation in 2022, prices have stabilized while inflation is expected to remain below 2 percent in the near term. According to the World Bank, per capita GDP in 2022 was $6,910, $150 lower than in 2021. Strong fiscal and monetary policy in Thailand have resulted in growing investment in the country. As a result, the prospects for Thai economic growth are promising.

    Thailand Agricultural Trade Overview

    In 2023, Thailand imported $17 billion of agricultural products, the top suppliers of which were Brazil, China, and the European Union. The United States was the fifth largest supplier of agricultural products to Thailand with $1.2 billion in exports. Top U.S. agricultural exports to Thailand were in bulk commodities related to feed and manufacturing, but strong opportunities exist for U.S. consumer-oriented products as well. Like Vietnam, Thailand also has large retail, tourism, and food processing sectors that rely on U.S. agricultural products. According to the FAS Exporter Guide for Thailand (TH2022-0083), demand for high-convenience processed foods as well as ready-to-eat meals, healthy food products, and food delivery are rising among Thai consumers. Plant-based and free-from products are also growing in popularity. Over the last twenty years, Thailand has ratified several regional and bilateral FTAs with major trading partners. Where trading partners do not have an FTA in place, Most Favored Nation tariff levels apply.

    Products with growth potential include:

    • Beef Products: U.S. exports of beef and beef products to Thailand have more than doubled in the last ten years, driven by exports of boneless frozen beef. Demand for imported beef is increasing because of urbanization, rising incomes, tourism, and the slow recovery of the domestic livestock sector following severe pandemic-related disruptions.
    • Dairy Products: Consumption of cheese and non-fat dried milk powders for nutritional drinks is expected to grow in Thailand. As in Vietnam, consumers are increasingly influenced by western-style diets, which incorporate cheese products into healthy lifestyle messaging.
    • Dog and Cat Food: The dog and particularly cat pet populations in Thailand are expanding, as highlighted in FAS reporting (TH2021-0063
    • ). As consumers shift to healthier lifestyles themselves, they have increased purchases of premium packaged pet food products like treats and pet foods labeled as natural and healthy. Thailand allows dry and wet pet food imports from the United States.
    • Fresh Fruits: The United States consistently ranks as a top five supplier of fresh fruit to Thailand. Top exports include fresh apples and cherries, both of which grew in 2023, increasing 35 percent and 83 percent by value. Fresh fruit imports are challenged by fluctuations in the Thai baht, but demand for imported fresh fruit remains strong.
    • Wine: In February 2024, Thailand removed its high import tariff and reduced the excise tax on wine to promote tourism and increase spending by foreign and domestic tourists. These measures are expected to improve the competitiveness of U.S. wines. Wine consumption is increasing among Thai consumers due to the growing middle class, large tourism industry, and expansion of “wine culture” in hotels, restaurants, and bars. U.S. exports of wine and related products grew by both value (6 percent) and volume (18 percent) in 2023.

    Conclusion

    With projected population and economic growth, Vietnam will remain a market with high growth potential for U.S. agricultural exports. Consumer-oriented products present particularly good opportunities, as Vietnamese consumers increasingly demand high-quality, safe, and nutritious products. Dairy products (cheese, non-fat dried milk powder), fresh fruits (apples, cherries), meat products (beef, poultry), processed products (condiments, pet food), and tree nuts (pistachios, almonds) are all exciting growth areas for U.S. exports. Thailand also presents opportunities for premium consumer-oriented products for many of the same reasons as Vietnam: a growing population and middle class, increased preference for healthy and nutritional products, and strong sectors able to absorb high-value U.S. products. In both countries, there is strong and growing consumer preference for U.S. branded products and exporters of U.S. agricultural products are sure to find exciting prospects in these markets.

  • Westlands Water District Announces 2024 Scholarship Winners

    Westlands Water District is proud to announce the recipients of its 2024 Westlands Scholarship. The annual Westlands Scholarship program recognizes and rewards exceptional graduating seniors from westside high schools. This year, the District is proud to extend the scholarship to support 20 youth in achieving their higher-education goals. Each scholarship recipient was selected based on a combination of academic achievements, leadership, contributions to the local community, and future career goals.

    “Westlands is honored to support the educational journey of some of our region’s outstanding youth for the 18th year,” said Allison Febbo, General Manager, Westlands Water District. “Recognizing that education can be expensive, we hope to help reduce barriers for students in our communities to pursue college and career paths so that they can achieve their dreams. These talented students are the ones who will define the future of the Central Valley.”

    The District congratulates the following 20 recipients of the 2024 Westlands Scholarship. Amongst our recipients we have future leaders in education, healthcare, business, and science.  Below are excerpts from each recipient’s application when asked about the importance of agriculture and water in the San Joaquin Valley.

    Moises Solorio, Future Ag. Business Leader

    Avenal High School – California State University, Fresno

    “Agricultural water plays a crucial role in sustaining communities and livelihoods. Many families in the West Side of the San Joaquin Valley depend on agriculture for employment and income. Whether they work directly on farms, in agricultural support industries, or in businesses that benefit from the agricultural sector, water is essential for maintaining these jobs and preserving the fabric of rural communities.”

    Angelina Lee, Future Nurse

    Coalinga High School – California State University, Fresno

    “My family comes from a generation of farmers. It is all my family has known since immigrating to the United States since they never realized or learned the importance of getting an education… Agriculture has opened many doors for my family. It has helped keep my family alive and well and provided many opportunities for us.”

    Susana Licea, Future Registered Nurse

    Coalinga High School – West Hills College

    “Agriculture plays a crucial role in the economy of California and the west side of the San Joaquin Valley. The agricultural industry provides employment opportunities for thousands of people, from farmers and farmworkers to truck drivers and food processors. Without reliable access to water for irrigation, farms wouldn’t be able to operate efficiently, leading to job losses and economic instability in rural communities.”

    Nolan Herrin, Future Business Leader

    Coalinga High School – California State University, Fresno

    “I was born in 2006. I have been riding around the farm for as long as I can remember. However, it wasn’t until 2020 that I got my first job checking wells for my dad. Then, from there in the summer of 2022, I started working with my grandpa Chuck, learning the many aspects of farm labor contracting. I did that again in the summer of 2023, and plan on working for either my dad or grandpa again this summer. During my lifetime, I have had a first-hand view of how important agriculture is and how many lives are affected by it. Not only does agriculture put food on the table for every person in the world. It is also how my family and so many others make a living within the Westlands Water District.”

    Angela Rosa, Future Biologist

    Firebaugh High School – California State University, Fresno

    “Once I grew older I realized the importance of agriculture in our community, and how it helped my father stay secure, so I became involved in agriculture at our school. I volunteered at our annual Ag Awareness Day, to ensure young children know and understand the opportunities agricultural jobs provide. Although it might seem that agriculture affected my life negatively because of the circumstances we faced, without my father working in this field we would not have a home. And so for that I encourage agricultural education because this is a pathway that will always be secure in California.”

    Isabella Silva, Future Nurse

    Sierra Pacific High School – California State University, Fresno

    “Its impact extends beyond serving as a cornerstone that has shaped the opportunities available to my parents in ways that were previously inconceivable to my grandparents. Agriculture has bestowed upon my family a foundational platform that we cherish deeply, filled with immense gratitude. As Steve Jobs famously remarked, “Your time is limited, don’t waste it living someone else’s life.” I am thankful to leverage the successes that agriculture has bestowed upon my family, using them as stepping stones to further elevate my achievements and pave the path for future prosperity.”

    Brayson Gillio, Future Ag. Business Leader

    Sierra Pacific High School – California State University, Fresno

    “I am devoted to assisting my father with our 65-year-old family business, which I hope to be the owner of one day. This will make me the fourth-generation owner of our company. My goal would be to expand this business and gain the education to help better assist the community.”

    Sofia Godinho, Future Speech Pathologist

    Sierra Pacific High School – San Diego State

    “The west side of the San Joaquin Valley, with its fertile soil and ample water supply, supports the growth of a wide variety of crops. Without sufficient agricultural water, the region would struggle to meet the demand for fresh produce, impacting the availability and affordability of food for millions of people.”

    Jason McDonald, Future Education Leader

    Lemoore High School – Minot State University

    “Water to the San Joaquin Valley is crucial for the people who own farms and those making a living providing the state its rich products. Products such as fruit and vegetables, cotton, feed for the meat products that we purchase and the dairy products we consume. Water makes all of this happen. When the farmers do not get the water needed it creates a ripple effect. Less water equals less crops, equals higher prices for all products. Less crops equal less workers needed. This effects towns and cities as people follow the work and towns dry up people move away.”

    Daisy Albarran, Future Administration of Justice Leader

    Lemoore High School – West Hills College Lemoore

    “While my parents were able to further their education in college, my grandparents continued to work in the fields for Wonderful Company for years after my parents had left Avenal. It is thanks to our valley’s agriculture that has kept my grandparents employed, supported their families, and brought greater opportunities to each generation after them. I am forever grateful for the sacrifices they have made to come to this country and the hard work that they have put in to make their dreams come true. The Central Valley is my home, and I hope to help my local community continue to thrive as I become a working member of it myself after I graduate high school.”

    Paige Orton, Future Teacher

    Lemoore Middle College High School – Brigham Young University Idaho

    “Agriculture is a part of our lives every single day. Despite taking care of the land and animals and it being very time-consuming, I enjoy it. I enjoy raising chickens. I enjoy helping my father when he needs it. I enjoy any opportunity to see and hang out with him when he isn’t outside or at the ranch. I enjoy being deemed responsible for taking care of other lives. I raise my own plants too. Having agriculture as a part of my life every single day makes me want to keep doing it.”

    Arley Melendez, Future Political Science Leader

    Mendota High School – UC Berkeley

    “The loss of water will impact thousands of families who work in the fields. Families who have no high school degree, who can’t speak English, and who don’t have citizenship. Families like mine. According to Maven’s article, over 42,000 jobs are expected to be lost due to groundwater restrictions from SGMA. Moving forward, there is still uncertainty, but one thing is evident: water keeps the world and society revolving.”

    Aylany Macias, Future Medicine/Public Health Official

    Mendota High School – UC San Diego

    “Despite its challenges, agriculture has been the one factor that has helped us survive. Due to agriculture, we’re allowed to have a roof above us and a food on the table every day. My exposure to agriculture has also allowed me to realize that I want to aspire for bigger and better things. Everyday as I see my parents leave the house at three in the morning to work in those fields, I think of the opportunities I can take advantage of to make my future better.”

    Cherrilyn Segovia Ruiz, Future Pediatrician

    Mendota High School – UCLA

    “Across our community, many families rely on agricultural jobs to make ends meet and create better prospects for their loved ones. It’s a testament to their hard work and dedication to providing for their families while contributing to the agricultural industry’s vitality.”

    Maria Mendoza, Future Public Health Official

    Mendota High School – Cal Poly

    “The summer of eighth grade was the first time I got to go work with them. I remember

    that day we were told we had to clean tomatoes by removing weeds. The hot sun was unbearable, but I was somehow able to do it for the entire two months of summer break. In those two months, I learned agriculture’s invaluable effect on my life. Agriculture wasn’t just a means to an end; it was the very foundation upon which my dreams were built. It provided not only a source of income but a sense of pride and purpose.”

    Leonel Solorio, Future Biologist

    Riverdale High School – California State University Monterey Bay

    “The agricultural industry has affected my life because it was my job in the summertime. Even though I was working under extreme conditions it has made me value education. My family thinks that agriculture is just manual labor, however, there is so much more. When I was younger, we struggled to have food on the table. Knowing the struggle of going hungry pushed me to want to make a difference and help others not go through hunger. I volunteer for my local Lanare Community Food Bank four times per month, sometimes even more. I coordinate food deliveries, pack food, distribute to families, and translate. I derive more satisfaction from making a lasting difference in my community than spending my free time at home.”

    Angela Vazquez Solorio, Future Mathematician

    Riverdale High School – Lemoore College

    “My dad used to work in a dairy, where his schedule would change every few weeks. Because of his experience working in agriculture, he taught me to be a person who can adapt. Now, he does tractor maintenance on a farm. Agriculture has affected how comfortable my life is. My family can have food on the table because of the jobs agriculture provides. Not only that, everyone has food on the table because of the agricultural business and the hard work of agricultural workers.”

    Jimena Arias Estrada, Future Business Administrator

    Riverdale High School – CSU Sacramento

    “Both of my parents came to California from Mexico to give me and my siblings a better future. I have 2 older siblings and 1 younger brother. Since I was born, my dad has been my family’s only financial provider. He has always worked in the agriculture industry. He transfers and spreads soil in the fields. Although he has had a few different jobs as time has progressed, they have all been in the agriculture field and his job alone has been able to support me and my family throughout all my life.”

    Denise Torres, Future Psychologist

    Tranquility High School – CSU San Francisco

    “I am the oldest child in my family and the daughter of two immigrants. I knew I wanted a better future for my family and myself as I saw my father’s daily struggles and spent the few hours a day he spent with me at night and after he got home from work. I had to take on the role of mother to my siblings at this point. My mom’s death left our family struggling as a whole. In our tiny apartment, my dad was the only one who could support the family.”

    Oscar Duran Vega, Future Food Scientist

    Tranquility High School – California State University, Fresno

    “My family’s livelihood also depends on agriculture. Both my parents work as agricultural workers. If agriculture didn’t exist, my parents would not have jobs. If agriculture also didn’t exist, some of my favorite classes for high school work would not be available. Some of my favorite teachers are also a part of the Ag industry. My two favorite classes are Ag banking, and Mech 2. I have learned a lot from these two classes.”

    About Westlands Water District

    Westlands Water District is recognized as a world leader in agricultural water conservation and has served the farmers and rural communities on the west side of Fresno and Kings counties for more than five decades. As stewards of one of California’s most precious natural resources, Westlands continually invests in conservation, and champions farmers deploying innovative irrigation methods based on the best available technology.

  • Small But Promising Ag Export Opportunities in Denmark

    Although a small market in the European Union, Denmark offers export opportunities for U.S. exporters of wine, seafood, tree nuts, and several other products. The exporter guide focuses on Consumer Oriented Products and Seafood products and provides practical tips for U.S. exporters on how to conduct business in Denmark.

    Market Fact Sheet: Denmark

    Denmark, a Member State within the European Union (EU), is a high-income country in Scandinavia. The country’s open economy is dependent on foreign trade and the government supports a relatively liberal trade policy. Its population totaled almost six million in 2023.

    Imports of Consumer-Oriented Products:
    Products from other EU Member States lead Danish imports of consumer-oriented products. In 2023, the United States was the 12th largest supplier of these products to Denmark, with imports valued at over $104 million.

    Food Processing Industry:
    Denmark’s food and beverage industry comprises over 1,500 companies with a collective turnover of over $30 billion. Denmark is one of the world’sleading exporters of meat products, in particularly pork. Other notable Danish exports include cheese, food preparations, and seafood (salmon).

    Food Retail Industry:
    The Danish retail sector is rather consolidated, with Coop, Salling, and Dagrofa dominating the market. In 2023, exports of consumer-oriented products totaled $14.2 billion. Denmark continues to be a price sensitive market and the Danes spend about ten percent of their disposable income on food and beverages. The sector’s turnover for 2023 is forecasted $16 billion.

    Foodservice – HRI Industry:
    Despite the rising costs of living, the foodservice industry’s turnover is back on track. Consumers returned en-masse to HRI foodservice outlets. Last year, total sales were valued at $9.2 billion and exceeded the pre-pandemic level.

    Quick Facts CY 2023
    Imports of Consumer-Oriented Products, total: $10.1 billion

    List of Top 10 Growth Products in Denmark (imported from the World):

    1. Dairy products

    2. Bakery goods

    3. Wine

    4. Fresh fruit

    5. Beef products

    6. Pork products

    7. Food preparations

    8. Fresh vegetables

    9. Processed vegetables

    10. Cocoa products

    Food Industry by Channels 2023, in $ billion: Consumer-Oriented Products Imports $10 Consumer-Oriented Products Exports $14 Agricultural & Related Products Imports $22 Agricultural & Related Products Exports $26 Food Industry $30 Food Retail $16

    Food Service

    Top 10 Food Retailers in Denmark: SuperBrugsen Meny Spar Føtex Netto Rema1000 365discount Lidl

    Bilka

    GDP/Population: Population: 5.9 million GDP: $415 billion
    GDP per capita: $70,368

    Strengths/Weaknesses/Opportunities/Challenges

    Strengths:
    U.S. producers offer a great variety of food products with a consistent quality and have a great story to tell about sustainability.

    Weakness:

    Transatlantic transportation is costly and takes time. Some U.S. food products suffer from a negative perception among the Danes.

    Opportunities:
    The Danish processing industry increasingly demands U.S. seafood. Strong demand for U.S. wines in environmental- friendly packaging and products that are healthy and nutritious.

    Threats:
    There is fierce competition on price, quality, uniqueness, and innovation from other EU Member States.

    Data and Information Sources: Trade Data Monitor, industry experts, company websites Contact: FAS The Hague, agthehague@usda.gov

    Macroeconomic Situation

    Denmark is a small country with just under six million inhabitants. The Danish labor force totaled just over three million people at the end of 2023, and approximately 32 percent are employed in the public sector. Denmark’s OECD-harmonized unemployment rate was 5.3 percent in January 2024, lower than the EU-27’s average rate of six percent but above the OECD average of 4.8 percent. The labor force participation rate is among the highest in the world. In the fourth quarter of last year, 81.2 percent of working-age population participated in the labor force, and the employment rate was 77 percent.

    Many independent observers regard Denmark as one of the world’s most attractive business environments and the country ranks highly in indices measuring political, economic, and regulatory stability. Denmark is a constitutional monarchy which shares a southern border with Germany and is connected, via a bridge, with Sweden. The country has been a member of the European Union (EU) since 1973. It maintains a fixed exchange rate policy, with the Danish Krone linked closely to the Euro. Denmark is a social welfare state with a thoroughly modern market economy heavily driven by trade in goods and services. It has one of the highest GDP’s in the world. More information can be found in the Investment Climate Statement, https://www.state.gov/reports/2023-investment-climate- statements/kingdom-of-denmark/

    Read the full USDA Foreign Ag Service Report HERE.