NMPF and USDEC Commend Significant New Investment in Export Market Promotion

The announcement aligns with the requests made by Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow and Ranking Member Sen. John Boozman in late August.

Of the allocated funds, $1.3 billion will be directed to establish a Regional Agricultural Trade Promotion Program, and $1 billion will be allocated to commodity-based international food aid. This move is seen as a positive development by the dairy industry, emphasizing the importance of global market access for U.S. dairy products.

NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern expressed gratitude for the USDA's decision, highlighting the significance of supporting enhanced international market opportunities for American dairy farmers and cooperatives. Mulhern emphasized that, particularly in the present circumstances, the U.S. dairy industry relies heavily on exports, and the investment will contribute to better global competitiveness.

Mulhern also encouraged Congress to build on this announcement by providing additional funding for the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program in the development of the next Farm Bill. NMPF, USDEC, and other agricultural leaders are advocating for a doubling of funding for these programs, which have not seen an increase in over 16 years.

USDEC President and CEO Krysta Harden echoed these sentiments, noting that expanded trade opportunities benefit farmers, manufacturers, and workers throughout the dairy supply chain. The support from USDA is seen as a crucial step in strengthening the U.S. dairy industry by creating new markets and promoting nutritional dairy-containing products in food aid efforts.

Both organizations expressed appreciation for the senators' efforts in elevating the importance of using Commodity Credit Corporation resources to fund programs that support and strengthen the U.S. dairy industry. They look forward to continued collaboration to level the playing field for American dairy farmers and producers.