USDA adding more funding to AFTPP program

The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) from the US Department of Agriculture announced it would have additional support with updates to its America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP), which aims to expand export markets for US agricultural products.

The agency explained it would have an additional $285 million annually for the effort, starting in supplemental funding following recent tax cuts, which would support flagship FAS market development programs like the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program.

“USDA’s market development programs have a proven record of delivering for our farmers, ranchers and producers,” said Luke J. Lindberg, undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs. “Partnering with industry opens new doors for trade, strengthening our position in the global marketplace and advancing the Trump administration’s priority of keeping American agriculture competitive, resilient and ready to meet growing global demand.”

Following the news, the US Meat Export Federation (USMEF) announced its support for additional funding.

“USMEF greatly appreciates the Trump administration’s efforts to expand US agricultural exports through reciprocal trade agreements and other critical negotiations,” said Dan Halstrom, president and chief executive officer of USMEF. “But resources are also needed to capitalize on these agreements, and investments under the America First Trade Promotion Program will make it possible to further diversify our red meat export destinations and grow US market share across the world. When global opportunities expand for US red meat, this translates to higher returns for farmers and ranchers and the entire US supply chain.”