California Ag Network

Tag: USDA Foreign Agricultural Service

  • USDA Announces Roster for Trade Mission to Australia

    The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service announced the participant list for its upcoming trade mission to Melbourne, Australia, Aug. 30 to Sept. 2.

    Participants  from California include Best Buy Grocers, Carriere Family Farms, the California Table Grape Commission, the California Milk Advisory Board, Western United Dairies, the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council and Valley Pride Ag Co.

    Through FAS agribusiness trade missions, American agribusinesses connect directly with overseas buyers to expand market access and boost exports for U.S. producers. Luke J. Lindberg, Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, will lead the delegation to Australia. The delegation includes 38 agribusinesses and trade organizations, as well as representatives from 10 State ag departments.

    “There’s no substitute for getting our producers face-to-face with overseas buyers – it’s the best way to showcase the best of what American agriculture has to offer,” said Under Secretary Lindberg. “Growing demand across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands makes this an ideal time for us to expand trade, strengthen partnerships and support American producers.”

    In 2025, Australia imported nearly $1.7 billion in American agricultural products, making it the 18th-largest export market for U.S. agricultural products. Consumer-oriented goods – such as packaged snacks, wine and fresh meats – account for 85% of that value. In New Zealand, U.S. exports reached $612 million in 2025, with consumer-oriented products making up more than half of the total.

    In addition to brokering business-to-business meetings, FAS staff and regional experts will hold in-depth market briefings and host site visits and networking events to strengthen trade relationships. — Story contributed by the USDA Foreign Ag Service

  • USDA Announces $2M to Nut Producers Overcome Trade Barriers

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) announced a $2 million project to support the development of cost-effective tools that help tree nut handlers control pests and maintain product quality while crops are in storage after harvest.

    Funded under the Assisting Specialty Crop Exports (ASCE) Initiative, this opportunity is part of a broader ASCE suite of investments for specialty crop producers, which include fruits, vegetables, pulses, potatoes and tree nuts. ASCE projects expand market access, advance science-based trade standards and help to keep specialty crop producers globally competitive as they face increasing barriers to trade overseas.

    Awards will be made in Fiscal Year 2027, pending the approval of a Fiscal Year 2027 spend plan.

    More information is available in the Notice of Funding Opportunity: “Assisting Specialty Crop Exports Initiative: Low Oxygen Storage and Packaging Systems for U.S. Tree Nuts with Phytosanitary Traceability” at Grants.gov: https://grants.gov/search-results-detail/363690.

    The deadline for applications is 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) Oct. 26, 2026.

    More information on the ASCE Initiative is available at: https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/assisting-specialty-crop-exports-asce-initiative. — Story contributed by the USDA Foreign Ag Service

  • USDA Accepting Applications for a Trade Mission to Singapore

    The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) announced it is now accepting applications for its upcoming trade mission to Singapore, scheduled for Dec. 7 to 9.

    FAS Agribusiness Trade Missions directly connect American agribusinesses with overseas buyers, expanding market access and boosting exports for U.S. producers. Current and potential U.S. exporters interested in exploring trade opportunities in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand must submit their application via the official online form by 11:59 p.m. EST, Sept. 8, 2026.

    “Expanding our footprint in Southeast Asia is critical as we work to diversify export opportunities and build new, resilient paths for getting safe, high-quality American agricultural products into more markets,” said Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke J. Lindberg. “Getting producers face-to-face with buyers cultivates long-term trade relationships in vibrant, rapidly developing markets—ensuring our producers have multiple avenues to meet global demand instead of relying on a single buyer.”

    In 2025, U.S. agricultural product exports to Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand reached more than $3 billion in total. This regional total includes $1.3 billion to Thailand and $1 billion to Malaysia. In Singapore, U.S. exports reached $769 million, with consumer-oriented products— such as tree nuts, dairy products, wine and processed foods—making up 65% of that value.

    In addition to brokering business-to-business meetings, FAS staff and regional experts will hold in-depth market briefings and host site visits and networking events to strengthen trade relationships throughout the mission.

    USDA anticipates significant growth opportunities in the region for several product categories, including:

    • Tree nuts
    • Food preparations, such as baking ingredients
    • Seafood
    • Beef
    • Wine and distilled spirits
    • Processed fruits and vegetables
    • Dairy, eggs and egg products
    • Pet food
    • Pulses, such as dry yellow and green split peas

    In 2025, USDA trade missions connected more than 250 U.S. companies with buyers in Hong Kong, Thailand, Peru, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Taiwan and Mexico, generating projected 12‑month sales of $125 million.

    Singapore will be USDA’s final Agribusiness Trade Mission for 2026—a year in which USDA sent delegations to Malaysia, Indonesia, Guatemala, El Salvador, the Philippines, Vietnam, Argentina, and Ecuador. USDA will announce 2027 missions soon.

    For information on these and other trade missions, visit https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-missions.

  • USDA Accepting Applications for Agribusiness Trade Mission to Ghana

    The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is now accepting applications for its Agribusiness Trade Mission to Accra, Ghana, from Sept. 22-25,.

    USDA’s agribusiness trade missions directly connect U.S. exporters with buyers in fast-growing overseas markets, boosting income for American farmers, ranchers, and producers, supporting and creating jobs, and fueling rural economies nationwide. Current and potential exporters interested in expanding their reach into Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and other West African countries must register by July 1, 2026.

    “This mission to Ghana is a chance to introduce buyers from across West Africa to the highest-quality goods America’s farmers, ranchers and producers have to offer” said USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke J. Lindberg. “Expanding our export footprint here brings America’s bounty to new markets and brings new sales back to rural America, building strong farms and communities for generations to come.”

    In Ghana alone, there’s a growing market for U.S. agricultural and related products, with exports reaching $175 million in 2025. Poultry and prepared foods make up most of this trade, but USDA anticipates strong growth potential across West African countries for a variety of commodities, including:

    • Poultry, beef and animal genetics
    • Grains, soybeans and animal feed
    • Dairy products and milk powders
    • Healthy food preparations and ingredients
    • Wine and distilled spirits
    • Seafood and forestry products

    During the trade mission, U.S. participants will engage in targeted, one-on-one business meetings with qualified buyers from across the region. Staff from FAS and regional market experts will also provide in-depth market briefings, site visits and networking events to help American businesses successfully navigate the West African market.

    To apply by the July 1, 2026, deadline visit the Ghana Agribusiness Trade Mission webpage.

    For more information on USDA trade missions, visit https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-missions. — Story contributed by the USDA Foreign Ag Service

  • USDA Launches TRUMP Mission to Argentina and Ecuador

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture launched a Trade Reciprocity for U.S. Manufacturers and Producers (TRUMP) mission to Argentina and Ecuador this week to open new markets and strengthen export opportunities for American farmers, ranchers and producers.

    Built on the Reciprocal Trade and Investment agreements signed with Argentina and Ecuador earlier this year, the mission led by USDA’s Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Luke J. Lindberg, aims to increase fair access to two of the Western Hemisphere’s fastest-growing markets.

    “Our three-point plan has already reduced the agricultural trade deficit by 42%, and now, TRUMP trade missions like this one are turning new market access into true market share,” said Under Secretary Lindberg. “By taking our farm groups straight to the table with willing buyers in Argentina and Ecuador, we’re converting these historic reciprocal agreements into lasting commercial wins for our hardworking farmers, ranchers and producers back home.”

    In 2025 alone, the U.S. exported $166 million in seeds, essential oils, livestock genetics, tree nuts and more to Argentina. The same year, $595 million in agricultural products were exported to Ecuador, including soybean meal, wheat and other feeds and fodders.

    Staff from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service will lead industry tours, host business-to-business meetings, and meet with Argentine and Ecuadorian officials to support U.S. trade priorities and American agricultural producers. The delegation includes representatives from:

    1.     California Almonds – Modesto, Calif.

    2.     USA Poultry & Egg Export Council – Tucker, Ga.

    3.     U.S. Grains and Bioproducts Council – Washington, D.C.

    4.     U.S. Livestock Genetics Export, Inc. – Mount Horeb, Wis.

    5.     U.S. Meat Export Federation – Denver, Colo.

    6.     U.S. Soybean Export Council – Chesterfield, Mo.

    7.     U.S. Wheat Associates – Arlington, Va.

    For more information on USDA trade missions, visit https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-missions. — Story contributed by the USDA Foreign Ag Service

  • U.S. Participants for Philippines Trade Mission Selected

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture will lead a trade mission to Manila, Philippines, from April 13–16, 2026, to expand market access for American farmers, ranchers, and producers.

    This mission follows a landmark trade agreement negotiated by President Trump in July of last year, which opened new opportunities for U.S. agricultural exports to the Philippines. Deputy Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering will lead the mission, heading a delegation of 58 U.S. agribusinesses, trade associations, and representatives from four State departments of agriculture.

    “USDA is committed to getting American farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses better access to strong markets and fair opportunities abroad,” said Deputy Undersecretary Bekkering. “Since the Philippines is one of the fastest-growing markets in Asia, this mission will connect U.S. exporters directly with reliable buyers, strengthen our trade relationship, and help keep American agriculture globally competitive.”

    The Philippines is the tenth‑largest market for U.S. agricultural and food products, averaging $3.4 billion in annual exports over the past five years. With a population of 118 million, a rapidly expanding middle class, and strong consumer preference for U.S. products, the Philippines offers enormous growth potential for American exporters.

    During the visit, USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service staff and regional experts will host market briefings, site visits, and business-to-business meetings with buyers from the Philippines.

    State departments of agriculture from Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska and Wisconsin will join the mission alongside the 58 agribusinesses and trade associations, which include:

    1. 7th Sky Ventures LLC – Tampa, Fla.
    2. Aerocos International Ltd – Marlboro, N.J.
    3. American Egg Board – Chicago, Ill.
    4. American Peanut Council – Alexandria, Va.
    5. Best Buy Grocers, Inc. – Sherman Oaks, Calif.
    6. BNutty, Peanut Butter – Portage, Ind.
    7. California Milk Advisory Board – Tracy, Calif.   
    8. California Table Grape Commission – Fresno, Calif.
    9. CAS InterGlobal – Pleasanton, Calif.
    10. Commercial Creamery Company – Spokane, Wash.
    11. Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin – Madison, Wis.
    12. Dragonfly Cakes – Tacoma, Wash.
    13. East-West International Group, Inc –   Moreland Hills, Ohio.
    14. Foodlinx – Brentwood, Calif.
    15. Fort McCoy Meat, LLC – Fort McCoy, Fla.
    16. Galdisa USA – Conroe, Texas
    17. Global Export Marketing Co. Ltd. (GEMCO) – New York, N.Y.
    18. Globex International – New York, N.Y.
    19. Groceries USA – New York, N.Y.
    20. Grove Services – Atlanta, Ga.
    21. Indiana Corn Marketing Council – Indianapolis, Ind.
    22. International Market Brands – Issaquah, Wash.
    23. Intervision Foods – Atlanta, Ga.
    24. Jack’s Alimentary Supply, Inc. (JASI) – Lowell, Mass.
    25. Kizable, LLC – Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
    26. MacDonald Meat – Seattle, Wash.
    27. MEM Fairway Inc. – Irvine, Calif.
    28. Nebraska Corn Board – Lincoln, Neb.
    29. North American Export Grain Association – Washington, D.C.
    30. Ocean Gold Seafoods – Westport, Wash.
    31. Pacific Cheese Co., Inc. – Hayward, Calif.
    32. PacRim Wines & Spirits – San Rafael, Calif.
    33. Potatoes USA – Denver, Colo.
    34. Prime Pecan, LLC – Ocean Springs, Miss.
    35. Raisin Administrative Committee – Fresno, Calif.
    36. Scout & Zoe’s – Anderson, Ind.
    37. Sollarom Foods – Lakewood, Calif.
    38. Southern Forest Products Association – Metairie, La.
    39. Space Enterprises LLC – The Woodlands, Texas
    40. TAG Enterprise Ltd. – Beverly Hills, Calif.
    41. Tomex Foods Group – Lombard, Ill.
    42. Tranect LLC – Boston, Mass.
    43. Trinity Foods, Inc – San Diego, Calif.
    44. U.S. Dairy Export Council – Arlington, Va.
    45. U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council – Washington, D.C.
    46. U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council – Folson, Calif.
    47. U.S. International Foods LLC – St. Louis, Mo.
    48. U.S. Livestock Genetics Export – Mount Horeb, Wis.
    49. U.S. Meat Export Federation – Denver, Colo.
    50. U.S. Soybean Export Council – Chesterfield, Mo.
    51. U.S. Wheat Associates – Arlington, Va.
    52. United Dairy Ingredients Group LLC – Monterey Park, Calif.
    53. US Rice Producers Association – Katy, Texas   
    54. USA Poultry and Egg Export Council – Tucker, Ga.
    55. USA Pulses – Moscow, Idaho
    56. Valley Pride Ag Co. – Fresno, Calif.
    57. Virginia Distillery Co. – Lovingston, Va.
    58. Wonderful Citrus – Delano, Calif.

    In 2025, USDA trade missions connected more than 200 U.S. companies with buyers in Hong Kong, Thailand, Peru, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Taiwan and Mexico, generating projected 12‑month sales of $125 million. USDA will continue expanding export opportunities in 2026 with upcoming missions planned for Australia and Vietnam.

    For more information on USDA trade missions, visit https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-missions. — By USDA Foreign Ag Service

  • USDA Launches TRUMP Mission to Vietnam to Expand Market Access for American Farmer

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture launched a Trade Reciprocity for U.S. Manufacturers and Producers (TRUMP) Mission to Vietnam this week to open new markets, strengthen export opportunities, and secure fair, reciprocal trade for American farmers, ranchers and producers.

    Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke J. Lindberg is leading a delegation representing a cross-section of American agriculture that stands to benefit from expanded access to one of Asia’s fastest-growing markets.

    “American farmers, ranchers and producers thrive when they have strong, reliable markets for their high-quality products,” said Under Secretary Lindberg. “By strengthening our trade relationship with Vietnam, we’re opening doors for U.S. agriculture, ensuring they have a fair chance to compete and succeed, and that they can bring the benefits of that success to communities here at home.”

    Vietnam has become a top destination for U.S. agricultural products. In 2025 alone, agriculture, fishery and forest products exports surged by 45% to a record $5.6 billion, making Vietnam the United States’ eighth-largest market. This mission will build on that momentum by expanding market access, connecting suppliers with new buyers, and advancing negotiations under President Trump’s strategy to deliver fair, enforceable trade for American farmers and ranchers.

    During the visit, USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service will lead industry tours, host business meetings, and engage with Vietnamese officials to advance U.S. trade priorities and support U.S. producers. The delegation includes:

    1. California Fresh Fruit Association – Fresno, Calif.
    2. California Prune Board – Roseville, Calif.
    3. Potatoes USA – Denver, Colo.
    4. USA Poultry & Egg Export Council – Tucker, Ga.
    5. U.S. Dairy Export Council – Arlington, Va.
    6. U.S. Grains and Bioproducts Council – Washington, D.C.
    7. U.S. Meat Export Federation – Denver, Colo.
    8. U.S. Soybean Export Council – Chesterfield, Mo.
    9. U.S. Wheat Associates – Arlington, Va.
    10. Washington Apple Commission – Wenatchee, Wash.

    This is USDA’s third TRUMP mission of 2026. Later this year, USDA will return to Vietnam with a broader agribusiness trade mission to continue expanding opportunities for U.S. food and agricultural exports.

    For more information on USDA trade missions, visit https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-missions. — By the USDA Foreign Ag Service

  • Notice of Funding Opportunity for 3 U.S. Agriculture Market Promotion Trips 

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service announced on March 16, 2026, the availability of three $115,000 NOFOs that create opportunities for U.S. agricultural producers to increase exports to Uzbekistan and Armenia through U.S.-based agricultural marketing tours. USDA invites eligible applicants to apply to its three NOFOs to design and host 2-week marketing programs to educate international buyers on the superiority of U.S. agricultural products and arrange business connections between U.S. industry and Uzbek and Armenian buyers.

    The three marketing tours seek to:

    • Increase U.S. distilled spirits exports to Uzbekistan by educating Uzbek buyers on the superiority of American whiskeys.
    • Increase U.S. soy exports in Uzbekistan by educating Uzbek importers on using U.S. soy for livestock feed.
    • Expand business opportunities and reduce trade barriers for U.S. companies exporting agricultural products to Armenia.

    The funding opportunities are described in the Notice of Funding Opportunity published on Grants.gov here:

    The application deadline for this NOFO is 11:59PM Eastern Standard Time (EST) on May 14, 2026.

  • USDA Accepting Applications for Turkey Agribusiness Mission

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is now accepting applications for its agribusiness trade mission to Istanbul, Turkey, scheduled for May 11–14. U.S. exporters interested in exploring trade opportunities in Turkey, the Caucasus and Central Asia must apply by Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026.

    “With stable economic growth and proven demand for high-quality U.S. food in Turkey and the surrounding region, now is the time for U.S. agribusinesses and producers to take advantage of the momentum that President Trump has been building in trade worldwide,” said USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke J. Lindberg. “This trade mission hopes to follow in the successes we’ve had so far under this administration and I’m looking forward to connecting U.S. exporters with key buyers to forge partnerships and tap into these dynamic markets.”

    The U.S. was Turkey fifth-largest supplier of agricultural products in 2024, while Turkey ranked as the 16th-largest market for U.S. agricultural exports – a figure that has grown roughly 45% since 2020. Total U.S. agricultural product exports to Turkey exceed $1.7 billion, including more than $590 million in retail-ready goods like snack and pet foods, fruits, meats and dairy products.

    USDA sees strong opportunities for continuing growth in Turkey and the surrounding region, reflecting increasing consumer demand and expanding supply chains for the product groups including:

    • Tree nuts
    • Soybeans
    • Pulses
    • Dried distiller grains and solubles
    • Seafood
    • Poultry
    • Beef and pork
    • Prepared foods, sauces, condiments, sweets and snacks
    • Live animals, livestock genetics, hides and skins
    • Alcoholic beverages, distilled spirits and wine

    Participants will join buyers from Turkey, Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan for targeted business-to-business meetings to discuss market opportunities. FAS staff and regional experts will be on hand to host market briefings, site visits and networking events.

    Visit the application page for more information. The application deadline is Tuesday, Feb. 24. — USDA Foreign Ag Service

    The agribusiness trade mission to Türkiye is one of several USDA-led export promotion initiatives in 2026. USDA will announce application details for planned missions to Australia and Saudia Arabia soon. An additional trade mission to Vietnam will follow later in 2026. To learn more about FAS agribusiness trade missions, visit https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-missions.

  • USDA Announces Agribusiness Trade Missions for 2026

    As part of President Donald J. Trump’s unprecedented efforts to boost American agricultural exports, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) commitment to expanding and diversifying global market opportunities for U.S. agriculture, USDA will host six Agribusiness Trade Missions in 2026.

    “Every single day, President Trump’s cabinet is breaking down barriers and expanding new markets to sell the bounty of American agriculture. Boosting exports is critical to the success of the agricultural economy, and the American economy as a whole. Each year, USDA’s team of marketing and trade experts pinpoint new and growing global markets that offer top-notch prospects for U.S. exporters,” said Luke J. Lindberg, Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. “This year, we are focusing those efforts on markets where President Trump has put America’s farmers and ranchers on an even playing field across the globe.”

    The Agribusiness Trade Missions scheduled for 2026 include:

    • Jakarta, Indonesia: February 2026
    • Manila, Philippines: April 2026
    • Istanbul, Turkey: May 2026
    • Australia and New Zealand: August 2026
    • Saudi Arabia: September 2026
    • Vietnam: November 2026

    USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission to Jakarta, Indonesia: February 2026

    Under the Trump administration’s agreement, Indonesia would eliminate tariffs on more than 99% of U.S. products and address long-standing barriers to U.S. agricultural trade, opening doors to expanded market access in the world’s fourth-largest country.

    USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission to Manila, Philippines: April 2026

    In July, the Trump administration announced that the Philippines is opening its market to the United States and charging zero tariffs while the Philippines will pay 19 percent tariffs to the United States. 2026 also marks the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippines diplomatic relations.

    USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission to Istanbul, Turkey: May 2026

    This ATM will provide invaluable engagement opportunities to address tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade, such as import bans on U.S animal protein. Turkey is also strategically positioned as a regional transshipment hub, with this ATM connecting U.S. exporters with buyers from across the Caucasus region.

    USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission to Melbourne, Australia: August/September 2026

    Following the Trump administration’s trade wins in Australia, U.S. producers will take advantage of major trade breakthroughs that give greater access to U.S. beef exporters, as well as capitalize on comprehensive duty-free market access under the U.S.-Australia Free Trade Agreement.

    USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission to Saudi Arabia: September 2026

    This ATM will allow USDA to engage with Saudi officials on technical issues and non-tariff barriers affecting U.S. agricultural exports to the 23rd largest export market. Saudi Arabia is the largest economy and gateway to the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) which together import over $3 billion in U.S. agricultural exports annually.

    USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission to Vietnam: November 2026

    USDA maintains a large footprint in Vietnam working to increase market opportunities for U.S. producers in one of the fastest growing Southeast Asian economies. This ATM to Vietnam will capitalize on several key market wins including preferential access for certain U.S. agricultural products including specialty cheese and meats, as well as improved market access for U.S. peaches and nectarines.   

    Additional information about USDA trade missions can be found at https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-missions. To receive email updates, go to https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/usdafas/subscriber/new, enter your contact information, and select the “Trade Missions” topic. — USDA Foreign Agricultural Service