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% 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, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced funding totaling $300 million for 66 projects, and late December, USDA unveiled 67 additional projects that will receive another $300 million in funds when all the legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

This program has already helped U.S. producers expand their global trade networks and reach new markets. While we remain committed to our established customers, we are also focused on growth opportunities in regions like Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia.

These regions are experiencing rising Gross Domestic Products, expanding middle classes, growing urban populations, and evolving food retail systems — all of which are creating a growing demand for high-quality food and agricultural products.

Additionally, the $100 million Assisting Specialty Crop Exports (ASCE) initiative has strengthened the specialty crop sector. Through this program, more than $25 million was awarded to eight innovative projects, 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, regardless of size, location, product or target export market. 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, being finalized now with input from our stakeholders, will expand the use of non-traditional, shelf-stable U.S. commodities in international food assistance programs. Food for Opportunity highlights just one way in which USDA is not just seeking to address immediate needs, but rather is creating pathways for sustainable solutions that benefit millions worldwide in the years ahead.

Celebrating historic milestones

Our trade missions have set records in participation, diversity, and sales. Since February 2022, we’ve hosted 16 Agribusiness Trade Missions, including the first-ever dedicated missions for Tribal and Native Hawaiian communities. These efforts resulted in nearly 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 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.

Shared vision for the future

As I conclude my time at USDA, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the partnerships and trust you have extended. Together, we have 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, the journey of innovation, resilience, and collaboration continues with all of you. I look forward to witnessing the incredible progress that lies ahead.