Southeast Producers Get Trade Support
Southeast agriculture is getting a boost, with new federal funding aimed at helping farmers and producers expand their reach in global markets.
Recently, the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service announced its 2026 America First Trade Promotion Program funding. The effort is designed to support U.S. agriculture by expanding export opportunities and maintaining a presence in competitive global markets. This year, 55 nonprofit groups and cooperatives will receive support, including several with strong ties to the Southeast. The American Peanut Council is set to receive 3 million dollars, Cotton Council International will get 12.5 million, and the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council is receiving 6.5 million dollars.
Officials say the funding is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen trade relationships and build market access for U.S. agricultural products. As Under Secretary Luke Lindberg said, “USDA’s market development programs have a proven record of delivering for our farmers, ranchers and producers.”
A full list of all 55 organizations receiving funding is available at https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/america-first-trade-promotion-program/aftpp-fy-2026-funding-allocations
