Little Apple Times

U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann of Kansas and Dan Newhouse of Washington have introduced the Agriculture Export Promotion Act of 2025, aiming to enhance support for the Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development Program (FMD). The legislation is designed to assist American farmers in competing more effectively in international markets.

Rep. Mann emphasized the importance of agricultural trade for America's success, stating, "Congress must responsibly invest taxpayer dollars in places where we can see a wise return on those investments." He added that the act would boost U.S. export revenue, create jobs, and promote sales overseas while supporting rural economies like those in his district.

Rep. Newhouse highlighted the need for strong foreign market access for farmers nationwide: "By delivering our agricultural products into new markets, we can ensure that American farmers remain competitive on the global stage."

The bill has garnered bipartisan support with cosponsors including Reps. Brad Finstad from Minnesota, Ashley Hinson from Iowa, Jimmy Panetta from California, Kim Schrier from Washington, Jim Costa from California, and Chellie Pingree from Maine.

Rep. Finstad noted a significant agricultural trade deficit faced by southern Minnesota farmers: "We must prioritize policies that promote the expansion of agricultural trade." Rep. Hinson praised MAP and FMD as valuable tools providing a strong return on investment for American producers.

According to Rep. Panetta, "The bipartisan Ag Export Promotion Act will strengthen the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program," aiding farmers in reaching new markets and supporting local economies.

Rep. Costa stressed food's role as a global security issue: "Opening and growing new markets for American-made products is critical to building our agricultural economy."

Rep. Schrier expressed pride in being an original cosponsor of legislation that supports agriculture amid challenges like rising input costs and supply chain issues.

Rep. Pingree highlighted how USDA programs have been crucial for Maine's iconic products like wild blueberries and lobsters: "Our bipartisan Agriculture Export Promotion Act recognizes a fundamental truth: American agricultural producers cannot thrive in isolation."

USDA export programs such as MAP and FDM have significantly contributed to U.S. agriculture by adding $8.15 billion annually to export value and creating numerous jobs over several decades.

The proposed legislation has received backing from over 150 organizations including major industry groups like the American Farm Bureau Federation, National Corn Growers Association, National Pork Producers Council, among others.