Growing up on a farm in Northeast Iowa taught me the values of resilience and innovation—qualities that have guided my work as USDA’s Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. As I write this final “Export Impact” post, I reflect on the progress we have made in advancing U.S. agricultural exports and driving economic growth. Together, we have demonstrated how trade drives rural economies, supports jobs, and showcases the best of American agriculture on the global stage.
Strengthening Partnerships Through Innovation
The United States has long been a global leader in food and agricultural exports. However, more than 60 percent of our exports are concentrated in just four markets: China, Mexico, Canada, and the EU. In October 2023, USDA launched the $1.2 billion Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP) to reduce market dependency and diversify exports. In May 2024, Secretary Vilsack announced $300 million for 66 projects, and in mid-December, USDA unveiled 67 additional projects that will receive another $300 million in funds.
This program is already helping U.S. producers to reach new markets. We remain committed to our established customers, and are also focused on growth opportunities in Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. These regions feature rising GDP, expanding middle classes, growing urban populations, and evolving food retail systems.
Additionally, the $100 million Assisting Specialty Crop Exports (ASCE) initiative has strengthened the specialty crop sector. Through this program, eight innovative programs received more than $25 million, helping producers break into international markets and highlighting the diversity of American agriculture.
Ultimately, we want to ensure that our foreign market development programs—and agricultural trade in general—work for all American agricultural producers. By investing in exports, we are investing in the future of American agriculture and rural communities.
Collaborating to Advance Food Security
Global challenges require creative solutions, and USDA’s partnerships have been at the forefront of addressing food insecurity. The $50 million Food for Opportunity pilot, will expand the use of non-traditional, shelf-stable U.S. commodities in international food assistance programs. This program highlights one way in which USDA is creating pathways for sustainable solutions that benefit millions worldwide in the years ahead.
Celebrating Historic Milestones
Our agribusiness trade missions have set records in participation, diversity, and sales. Since February 2022, we’ve hosted 16 missions, including the first focused on Tribal and Native Hawaiian communities. These efforts resulted in 5,500 business meetings and $250 million in projected 12-month sales.
One of my proudest moments during my time at USDA has been supporting 2026 being declared as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, a grassroots idea that has become a global initiative. By highlighting women’s leadership in agriculture, USDA has advanced inclusion and created new opportunities across the sector.
A Shared Vision for the Future
As I conclude my time at USDA, I leave with a feeling of gratitude for the hard work we have done together. We not only delivered record-breaking results but also proven the enduring strength of American agriculture on the world stage. Though this chapter closes for me at USDA, the journey of innovation, resilience, and collaboration continues with all of you. I look forward to witnessing the incredible progress that lies ahead.
