USLGE is thrilled to announce $1.85 million in funding for new export market development granted through the  America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP) of USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS). This AFTPP grant is another critical tool in support of the U.S. livestock genetics industry to help level the global trade playing field and  address ongoing challenges and new opportunities.

President and CEO Martin Sieber noted, “We are grateful to USDA-FAS for continuing to provide us with unprecedented support in unique times where we face continued  challenges every day, coupled with ongoing resources to help us open new markets for genetics and live animals.” Sieber added, “USLGE’s relationship with USDA-FAS continues to be a prime example of a highly successful public-private partnership.”

“We couldn’t be more excited for this new opportunity to expand our reach, gain new customers, open new markets, and address frustrating challenges such as the New World screwworm,” added Weston Merrill, Marketing Officer for Trade and Market Development at the Montana Department of Agriculture as well as
current chair of USLGE’s Board of Directors.

For more information, contact USLGE at uslge@uslge.org

USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA-FAS) announced additional support for U.S. farmers and producers through the America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTTP) to help expand export markets for U.S. food and agricultural products. Starting in fiscal year 2027, USDA will have an additional $285 million annually in supplemental funding that it will use to support flagship USDA-FAS market development programs like the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program.  

“USDA’s market development programs have a proven record of delivering for our farmers, ranchers and producers,” said Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke J. Lindberg. 

One of USDA’s top priorities is creating new and better market opportunities for producers. This includes strengthening U.S. agriculture’s presence in existing markets and opening new market opportunities by ensuring that high-quality U.S. agricultural and food products reach all corners of the world. AFTPP provides the funding necessary to capitalize on the negotiated agreements with trading partners through increased market opportunities.
 
USDA-FAS will provide funding to 55 nonprofit organizations and cooperatives through AFTPP. The list of awardees for the AFTPP can be found at https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/america-first-trade-promotion-program/aftpp-fy-2026-funding-allocations.

To learn more about AFTPP and other USDA-FAS programs, visit www.fas.usda.gov/programs.  

Source: USDA-FAS Newsroom, April 16, 2026