Farewell Reflection: Export Impact’s Journey

Growing up on a farm in Northeast Iowa taught me the values of resilience and innovation—qualities that have guided my work as USDA’s Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs. As I write this final “Export Impact” post, I reflect on the progress we have made in advancing U.S. agricultural exports and driving economic growth. Together, we have demonstrated how trade drives rural economies, supports jobs, and showcases the best of American agriculture on the global stage.

Strengthening Partnerships Through Innovation

The United States has long been a global leader in food and agricultural exports. However, more than 60 percent of our exports are concentrated in just four markets: China, Mexico, Canada, and the EU. In October 2023, USDA launched the $1.2 billion Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP) to reduce market dependency and diversify exports. In May 2024, Secretary Vilsack announced funding totaling $300 million for 66 projects, and late December, USDA unveiled 67 additional projects that will receive another $300 million in funds when all the legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.