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Protecting trade in the farm bill debate

An official with the Biden administration says trade programs need to be protected in the farm bill. 

USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Ag Affairs Alexis Taylor tells Brownfield the programs are crucial to the ag economy.  “As we look at those market development programs, whether they be MAP or FMD, is making sure we’re telling our story,” she says.  “Where those dollars are going, what they are supporting, and the rate of return on them.  For every dollar we invest, we see a $24 return on investment.”

Taylor says she’s optimistic Congress can get a farm bill extension accomplished, but in the interim, the administration is making investments in trade.   “To make sure we have more resources to be able to support our export activities,” he says.  

The USDA recently committed $1.3 billion in Commodity Credit Corporation funds to create a new program designed to increase trade promotion and expand export markets for U.S. ag products. 

AUDIO: Alexis Taylor, USDA