US allocates $14 mln to expand soybean exports under new trade program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) has allocated $14 million under the new “America First Trade Promotion Program” (AFTPP) to support an initiative promoting U.S. soybean exports. The program aims to expand global demand for U.S. soybeans and strengthen the position of American producers in international markets.

The funds will support a joint initiative of the American Soybean Association (ASA) and the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) / WISHH initiative. The project is designed to provide international buyers with tools, data, and technical support to increase the use of U.S.-origin soybeans in their markets.

Industry representatives say the funding is timely as new trade opportunities for U.S. agriculture are emerging. USSEC notes that the program will help convert market momentum into actual export sales, while ASA emphasizes the importance of maintaining long-term market access for farmers.

Key activities include cooperation with processors, feed mills, and food companies, as well as supporting processing development in protein-deficient regions. The initiative also promotes soybean-based food applications and the development of sustainable supply chains.

In addition, the program focuses on strengthening the competitiveness of U.S. soybeans and highlighting their environmental sustainability credentials. It complements other USDA export tools, including the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program.

Associations say the funding will help scale up existing work in developing and emerging markets and launch new partnerships aimed at increasing global use of U.S. soybeans.

Tags: subsidies, export, soybean, USA