By Jamie Martin
The USDA has announced the opening of applications for its Fiscal Year 2027 trade promotion programs. These programs are designed to help American farmers and producers expand their reach in global markets. The application deadline is August 14, 2026.
“At USDA, Farmers First means giving our hardworking farmers, ranchers, and producers the tools they need to feed the world,” said Brooke Rollins, the United States Secretary of Agriculture. “USDA is using every tool it has to cut through the heavy red tape in overseas markets, leveling the playing field so that American producers can reach new buyers and bring dollars back to their farms, fields, and rural communities.”
These programs focus on building partnerships between the government and agricultural organizations. Through these efforts, the USDA works to reduce trade challenges and improve access to foreign markets. This helps producers sell more products internationally and increases farm income.
The programs have shown strong results over time. USDA reports that each dollar invested has generated significant export value since the late 1970s. These efforts also support hundreds of thousands of jobs and contribute billions of dollars to the U.S. economy annually.
Five main programs are included in the current funding round. 1) The Market Access Program supports marketing efforts for U.S. goods. 2) The Foreign Market Development Program helps develop demand for commodities overseas. 3) The Emerging Markets Program provides technical support to growing markets.
4) The Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops program works to address export barriers, such as health and safety requirements. 5) The Quality Samples Program gives potential buyers the chance to test U.S. products before purchasing, helping increase trust and demand.
The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service will review applications during the summer period. Successful applicants will be announced later this year, and funded activities are set to begin in FY27.
For more information about USDA’s trade promotion programs, visit: https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs.
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Categories: National