USDA Boosts Global Agri Trade Efforts for 2026

New Initiatives to Strengthen U.S. Agricultural Exports

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is gearing up for an expansive push in international agricultural trade. Announced by Secretary Brooke Rollins, the initiative includes four export market development programs designed to fortify U.S. agricultural presence worldwide.

"Our job at USDA is to open new markets for our farmers, ranchers, and producers. The previous administration left agriculture with a $50 billion trade deficit. President Trump and I will not sit idly by - we are actively working to open new markets and remove existing barriers," stated Secretary Rollins.

Starting in FY 2026, the USDA through its Foreign Agricultural Service will begin accepting applications for the Market Access Program (MAP), Foreign Market Development Program (FMD), Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops Program (TASC), and Emerging Markets Program (EMP).

These programs are tailored to support U.S. agricultural producers in promoting and selling their products on an international scale.

Each program is designed with specific goals to enhance the U.S. agricultural economy. For instance, MAP focuses on promoting a variety of U.S. products like fruits, vegetables, and nuts globally, leveraging substantial non-federal investments alongside federal funds. 

The application deadline is set for June 6, 2025, encouraging all eligible U.S. agricultural trade associations, farmer cooperatives, and small businesses to participate.

This strategic move underscores the USDA's commitment to ensuring effective use of taxpayer dollars while fostering long-lasting economic growth in rural America.