Trade
Vegetables, potatoes counter expanding U.S. ag export deficit
Despite an increasing overall U.S. agricultural trade deficit, exports of fruits, vegetables and nuts are helping balance losses in other ag export sectors, according to the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture report. Horticultural product exports,... more »
USDA ag trade advisory committees seek new members
New members to serve on USDA ag trade committees are being solicited. The USDA and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) are seeking growers to serve on the agricultural trade advisory committees. Committee... more »
Markon annual summit attracts foodservice customers
A foodservice cooperative's annual summit attracted customers. Markon Cooperative recently brought some of its customers together at its annual Markon Summit. The three-day event brought together more than 200 representatives from their exclusive member companies... more »
IFTA’s Robert Guenther heads Florida tomato groups
Robert Guenther, a longtime produce industry leader, has been named as head of Florida's tomato trade associations. Guenther will serve as the executive vice president of the Florida Tomato Exchange and Florida Tomato Growers Exchange,... more »
Changes proposed for fresh produce import inspection fees
Changes are coming to imported produce fees. The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is proposing altering the regulations governing the inspection and certification of imported fresh fruits, vegetables and other products. The proposed changes, announced... more »
Vegetable groups receive USDA market promotion funds
Watermelons, potatoes and sweet potatoes are among the commodities receiving federal funds for promotion and market development funding. The funding is part of $300 million allocated to 66 U.S. organizations under the USDA’s new Regional... more »
Florida tomato leader new Washington apple president
The leader of Florida's tomato industry is leaving the Sunshine State to head the Washington Apple Commission. Michael Schadler, the executive vice president of the Florida Tomato Exchange (FTE), is the new president of the... more »
USDA: US ag exports generated $412B in 2022
The value of U.S. agricultural exports totaled $197.4 billion in 2022 and generated $214.6 billion in economic activity for a total economic output of $412 billion, according to new USDA numbers. Exports comprised both commodities... more »
GFVGA comments on H-2A changes, farm bill
The Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (GFVGA) is commenting on the Department of Labor’s H-2A rules and the 2024 farm bill legislation. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) rules further threaten the viability of... more »
Florida tomato growers respond to Mexican dumping
The Mexican tomato industry won’t be able to litigate its way out of dumping charges, according to a news release from the Florida Tomato Exchange (FTE). In mid-April, in response to a lawsuit by a... more »