USDA awards $25M for specialty crop exports

By Andi Anderson

The USDA has awarded $25 million to support eight projects as part of its new Assisting Specialty Crop Exports (ASCE) initiative.

This initiative, launched in January 2024, is designed to create more market opportunities for U.S. producers and agribusinesses by addressing non-tariff trade barriers that hinder the export of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and other horticultural products.

“Specialty crop exporters face myriad import requirements in every foreign market they enter, yet they often don’t have the economies of scale to develop the required certifications or negotiate favorable terms,” said Alexis M. Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural. “ASCE will help smaller exporters by directly addressing barriers and supporting industry’s efforts to obtain needed certifications. We’re excited to bring on new partners who will provide solutions and allow U.S. specialty crop producers to expand international markets for their world-class products.”

U.S. exports of specialty crops totaled $25.8 billion last year, boosting economic development for producers across the country.

The selected partners and projects for the first round of ASCE funding are as follows:

• Clemson University and the Foundation for Fresh Produce: Each will receive $5 million to establish ASCE Sustainable Packaging Innovation Labs. These labs will focus on addressing the changing packaging and labeling requirements in export markets, providing U.S. exporters with sustainable packaging solutions.
• The Minor Use Foundation: Awarded $2 million to develop supporting data and submit applications for additional maximum residue limits (MRLs) for specialty crops under the Codex Alimentarius Commission. This project will help fill the gap where major commodity crops often receive priority over specialty crops.
• CABI: Will lead two projects, one receiving $4 million for work in Southeast Asia and another receiving $3 million for efforts in Africa. Both projects aim to align pesticide regulatory systems and harmonize MRLs, making market access more transparent and predictable for U.S. producers.
• Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture: Will lead a $3-million project focusing on Latin America and the Caribbean, working to align pesticide regulatory systems and create science-based, trade-friendly MRLs.
• Ag Aligned Global LLC: Will lead a $3-million project focusing on import MRLs in Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation member economies. This project will support U.S. specialty crop trade and ensure U.S. producers’ input is included in ASCE projects.
• Bryant Christie Inc.: Selected to develop MRL quick reference sheets for 60 specialty crops in key export markets, helping to simplify the complex requirements for U.S. producers.

These projects aim to make complex trade requirements more accessible for U.S. specialty crop producers, helping them expand their global reach.

Photo Credit: usda