Last week, a bipartisan group of lawmakers reintroduced the Agriculture Export Promotion Act of 2025. This legislation aims to significantly enhance funding for two critical USDA programs—the Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD)—to bolster American agricultural exports. The bill proposes doubling the annual budget for MAP from $200 million to $400 million and increasing FMD funding from $34.5 million to $69 million. Supporters argue that this investment will not only strengthen rural economies but also create new opportunities for U.S. agricultural businesses. A study by Texas A&M University suggests that such an increase could generate an additional $44.4 billion in U.S. agricultural exports over the next five years.
A Closer Look at the Agriculture Export Promotion Act of 2025
In the heart of autumn, as leaves turned golden and harvests were gathered, bipartisan members of Congress unveiled the Agriculture Export Promotion Act of 2025. This significant piece of legislation seeks to double the financial support for two vital USDA initiatives: the Market Access Program (MAP) and the Foreign Market Development (FMD) Program. Since its initial introduction in February 2023 under a different name, the act has garnered attention for its potential to revolutionize how American farmers and pet food manufacturers compete on the global stage.
The proposed changes would see MAP's annual funding rise from $200 million to $400 million, while FMD's budget would climb from $34.5 million to $69 million. Advocates believe these investments will stimulate agricultural exports, support rural communities, and open doors for U.S. agribusinesses. According to research from Texas A&M University, doubling the funding for these programs could result in an impressive $44.4 billion boost to U.S. agricultural exports between 2024 and 2029.
One key beneficiary of this legislation is the Pet Food Institute (PFI), which has been involved in export promotion through MAP since 1993. PFI leverages USDA grant funds to promote U.S. pet food in 18 countries, emphasizing the safety and quality of American products. In 2023 alone, U.S. pet food exports reached $2.4 billion, with products distributed to over 90 nations. Dana Brooks, PFI’s president and CEO, highlighted the importance of expanding exports for continued market growth, especially as pets become increasingly valued members of families worldwide.
The North American Renderers Association (NARA) has also expressed strong support for the bill. Kent Swisher, NARA’s president and CEO, emphasized the role of rendered products in global supply chains and their contribution to sustainable animal nutrition and renewable fuels. He believes that increased funding will empower renderers to develop new markets and strengthen trade partnerships, ultimately driving growth within the industry.
The Broader Implications of Enhanced Export Promotion
As the Agriculture Export Promotion Act of 2025 moves through Congress, it represents a pivotal moment for U.S. agriculture. For organizations like PFI and NARA, swift passage of this legislation could mean greater opportunities to expand globally and contribute to economic growth. The enhanced funding would enable more robust marketing efforts, deeper market insights, and stronger international partnerships. Ultimately, this act underscores the importance of supporting U.S. agricultural exports in an increasingly competitive global market, ensuring that American farmers and manufacturers remain at the forefront of innovation and excellence.