Pennsylvania apples go global with USDA trade efforts

By Blake Jackson

American apples, including those grown in Pennsylvania, are looking beyond domestic borders to expand their reach. The recent lifting of retaliatory tariffs in India by the USDA marks a positive step toward revitalizing the apple trade with this key market.

USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Alexis Taylor, recently visited Rice Fruit Co. in Adams County, Pennsylvania, to discuss ongoing efforts to strengthen international markets for American agricultural products.

Taylor highlighted the impact of the lifted tariffs, which had previously crippled U.S. apple exports to India. While India still imposes tariffs on apples, they now apply equally to all countries, allowing American apples to compete more effectively.

Further support will come through the first round of funding from the $1.2 billion Regional Agricultural Promotion Program, which aims to help exporters reach new markets and increase market share in existing ones. This $300 million allocation complements the ongoing Market Access Program, providing valuable resources for Pennsylvania's $2.8 billion agricultural and food industry.

Upcoming trade missions to India, Angola, Colombia, Morocco, South Korea, and Vietnam offer further opportunities for Pennsylvania businesses to build relationships with foreign firms and learn about overseas market demands.

Taylor emphasized the importance of diversifying export destinations to lessen reliance on a few large markets. This strategy helps mitigate risk and ensures greater profitability for farmers and ranchers.

Despite facing challenges like the recent trade deficit, the U.S. agricultural sector is experiencing a strong run, with projections placing this year as the second highest in terms of export value. While imports have also increased, Taylor highlighted the USDA's initiatives, such as the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Initiative, focused on boosting exports of specific products.

Benjamin Rice, President of Rice Fruit Co., acknowledged the importance of foreign markets for large growers, especially during bumper crop years like 2023. He expressed optimism about future export opportunities after learning about the support available from U.S. embassies around the world.

Overall, the USDA's renewed focus on international trade offers promising prospects for Pennsylvania's apple industry and the broader agricultural sector, paving the way for increased market share and sustained economic growth.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-dionisvero