By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a significant increase in funding for the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP), committing an additional $300 million to assist U.S. exporters. This initiative is designed to expand and diversify the markets for American agricultural products.
Deputy Agriculture Secretary Xochitl Torres Small highlighted the role of RAPP in enhancing U.S. farmers' access to international markets, thereby supporting domestic agricultural income and contributing to global food security.
Initially launched under the Administration, RAPP aims to break into new markets beyond traditional partners like China, Mexico, and Canada.
The program's first funding cycle attracted proposals totaling over a billion dollars, demonstrating the strong interest and potential for American agribusinesses in global markets. The additional funding will continue to support a variety of market development projects across numerous products and regions.
Particularly notable in this round of funding is the $25 million earmarked for activities in Africa, targeting one of the world's fastest-growing but least invested regions by U.S. exporters.
With applications due through early October and funding announcements expected by year's end, this move signifies a strategic effort to bolster rural economic development through enhanced export capabilities.
This commitment by the USDA not only reflects an ongoing strategy to revitalize America’s food system but also aligns with broader goals of creating fairer markets and enhancing agricultural sustainability through innovative practices.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National