Funding targets wider global reach
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has allocated $212 million to strengthen overseas demand for American farm products, directing the funds through its Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development program. The awards, announced in mid-February for fiscal 2026, are aimed at expanding export opportunities for a broad spectrum of commodities, including Northwest tree fruit, California nuts, beef, dairy, potatoes, wine and wheat.
The two programs provide cost-sharing support for industry groups to promote U.S. agricultural goods abroad, support trade servicing and build consumer awareness in priority markets. The latest round of funding reflects continued emphasis on export growth at a time when producers face shifting global demand and trade competition.
Tree fruit groups secure major allocations
The Washington Apple Commission received one of the largest individual Market Access Program awards at $5.6 million. Only about 10 of the 68 MAP recipients exceeded the $5 million threshold. The funding will support initiatives to enhance the Washington apple brand across traditional trade channels and digital platforms in key markets.
Washington apples and pears are promoted in numerous regions, including Canada, Central America, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, the Middle East, South America, Taiwan, Thailand, the United Kingdom, Vietnam and parts of Western Europe.
Pear Bureau Northwest was awarded $2.7 million under MAP. The organization plans to use the support to strengthen established programs and reengage markets where promotional activity has slowed. Additional details on campaign strategies are expected later this year.
California nut sector expands outreach
California’s major tree nut organizations also secured significant backing. The California Walnut Commission received $3.7 million in MAP funding, supplementing $14 million in Regional Agriculture Promotion Program support earmarked for export development through 2030. With more than two thirds of California walnut production shipped overseas, international sales remain central to the industry’s growth strategy.
American Pistachio Growers, based in Fresno, was allocated $1.6 million from MAP to deepen outreach in established and emerging markets. The Almond Board of California was awarded $3.4 million in MAP funds along with an additional $336,000 from the Foreign Market Development program.
Broad commodity representation
A range of livestock, dairy and crop organizations in the Pacific Northwest and California also received export development support. The U.S. Meat Export Federation secured $14 million under MAP plus $910,000 through FMD. The Western United States Agricultural Trade Association received $8.4 million, while the Wine Institute was granted $6.8 million.
Other recipients include the U.S. Dairy Export Council with $5.7 million, U.S. Wheat Associates with $4.8 million from MAP and $4.6 million from FMD, and the National Potato Promotion Board with $4.2 million. Additional awards went to groups representing prunes, table grapes, apples, pears, wine producers, dry peas and lentils, blueberries and hops.
Industry leaders say the resources will help sustain competitiveness in global markets and create new demand channels for American growers and ranchers. As export sales continue to represent a critical share of revenue for many sectors, the USDA’s funding is expected to support trade missions, promotional campaigns and long term market access strategies across key regions worldwide.
