WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is taking a major step towards promoting American agriculture and food products on a global scale. Deputy Agriculture Secretary Xochitl Torres Small announced today that an additional $300 million will be made available through the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP). This initiative aims to support and expand export markets for American farmers and food producers around the world.
The RAPP was first established in 2016 and has since been a crucial tool in promoting U.S. agricultural products in international markets. With this new funding, the program will be able to reach even more countries and showcase the high-quality and diverse range of American farm and food products.
This announcement comes at a critical time for American farmers and producers who have been facing challenges due to the ongoing pandemic. The USDA recognizes the importance of supporting the agricultural sector and ensuring its growth and success in the global market.
Deputy Secretary Torres Small stated, “The RAPP has been a game-changer for American agriculture, and this additional funding will further strengthen our efforts to promote U.S. farm and food products around the world. Our farmers and producers work tirelessly to provide the world with high-quality, safe, and sustainable products, and this program will help them reach new markets and increase their exports.”
The RAPP provides funding to organizations that work to promote U.S. agricultural products in foreign markets. These organizations include trade associations, non-profit organizations, and state agencies. They use the funding to conduct activities such as market research, trade shows, and advertising campaigns to showcase American products and connect with potential buyers.
The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) plays a crucial role in implementing the RAPP. FAS works closely with these organizations to identify and target key markets and develop effective strategies to promote U.S. agricultural products. With this additional funding, FAS will be able to expand its reach and support more organizations in their efforts to promote American products globally.
The RAPP has already seen tremendous success in promoting U.S. agricultural products in various countries. In 2023, the program helped increase U.S. agricultural exports by $500 million, and it is expected to have an even greater impact with this new funding.
This initiative not only benefits American farmers and producers but also creates economic opportunities for the entire agricultural sector. By expanding export markets, the RAPP will help create jobs and boost the economy. It will also contribute to the overall goal of the USDA to increase U.S. agricultural exports to $200 billion by 2025.
The USDA’s commitment to promoting American agriculture on a global scale is commendable. With this additional funding for the RAPP, the department is taking a proactive approach to support the agricultural sector and ensure its growth and success in the international market.
The RAPP also aligns with the USDA’s efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and address global food security. By showcasing American products, the program not only promotes economic growth but also highlights the high standards and sustainable practices of U.S. farmers and producers.
In conclusion, the USDA’s announcement of an additional $300 million for the RAPP is a significant step towards promoting American agriculture and food products globally. This initiative will not only benefit farmers and producers but also contribute to the overall growth and success of the agricultural sector. With this funding, the RAPP will continue to be a valuable tool in showcasing the quality and diversity of American agricultural products to the world.
