USDA Grants Nearly USD 1 Million to Boost NASDA Market Research in Africa, Southeast Asia

"NASDA members will be engaged in critical discussions to support global market development and strengthen bilateral trade relationships," said NASDA CEO Ted McKinney.

This funding will be used by NASDA to conduct market research in emerging markets in Southeast Asia and Africa, as well as to organise outbound trade missions for state agriculture leaders to learn about the markets and engage in discussions with relevant parties in each country.

USDA regulations establish official marketing standards for grains and oilseeds and mandate that exported grains and oilseeds be weighed and inspected. The laws of the Department also govern the slaughter and manufacture of meat products.

"Members of NASDA understand how critical it is to spread the message about the value and quality of American products, as well as the benefits of innovation, around the world. The first step toward gaining strong trading partners is to establish open communication channels and to manage international relationships "McKinney explained.

"We are grateful for our collaboration with USDA FAS, which allows us to embark on this mission and champion the federal government's vision for international trade." The research will be used to create reports on the perception of agriculture in the United States, consumer preferences, and non-tariff barriers to market access.

NASDA will send up to five members on outbound trade missions to selected countries to meet with government officials, industry leaders, and agricultural producers. The goal is to identify non-tariff barriers, form partnerships with regional groups, and strengthen relationships to increase market access for US agriculture.