WASHINGTON, DC – Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture/Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA/FAS) announced a significant new investment aimed at strengthening export opportunities for American agriculture.  Through the America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP), a $285 million initiative, USDA/FAS is providing additional support to help U.S. farmers, ranchers, and producers expand their reach in international markets and remain competitive globally.  As part of this effort, USA Rice was awarded $5 million in funding to further its work promoting U.S.-grown rice abroad.

“We thank Secretary Rollins and Under Secretary Luke Lindberg along with the whole team at FAS for their leadership and commitment to enhance international market development programs through the creation of AFTPP,” said USA Rice President & CEO Peter Bachmann.  “At a time when our industry’s economics are upside down and export help is needed, this investment will go a long way to help ensure that U.S. rice producers can continue to build strong relationships with international buyers and find new homes for their sustainably-grown rice.”

USA Rice was one of 55 nonprofit organizations and agricultural cooperatives selected to receive AFTPP funding.

The AFTPP funding serves as an important bridge to additional resources expected under the Working Families Tax Cuts framework, providing timely support for USDA’s long-standing market development programs.  By reinforcing these efforts now, the program helps lay the groundwork for sustained export growth and long-term success for American agriculture.

Published Date: April 22, 2026