U.S. Soy Receives $14 Million in USDA Trade Promotion Funding to Expand Global Export Demand
22 April 2026, US: The American Soybean Association, U.S. Soybean Export Council, and World Initiative for Soy in Human Health have announced a $14 million funding allocation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture through its new America First Trade Promotion Program.
The funding will support joint initiatives aimed at increasing global demand for U.S.-origin soybeans by providing international buyers with market intelligence, technical assistance, and procurement support. The program is intended to strengthen the position of U.S. Soy in key international markets and help buyers choose U.S. supply for food, feed, and processing needs.
Mike McCranie, Chair of USSEC and a soybean farmer from South Dakota, said the support comes at an important time as new trade agreements create fresh export opportunities and help diversify demand across global markets. He added that the industry expects the investment to translate into higher exports and returns for soybean growers.
Scott Metzger, President of the American Soybean Association and an Ohio farmer, said global demand remains central to farm profitability. He noted that the funding will help maintain long-term market access and improve the competitiveness of U.S. soybeans in international trade.
Morey Hill, Chair of WISHH and an Iowa farmer, said the allocation will build on previous market development efforts in developing and emerging economies. According to him, the funding will also enable new partnerships and programs focused on expanding soy use in regions with rising protein demand.
Planned activities under the initiative include technical training for processors, feed manufacturers, and food companies; support for local processing and enterprise development in protein-deficit regions; promotion of soy-based food products; and sustainability outreach highlighting the environmental performance of U.S. Soy in climate-smart supply chains.
The America First Trade Promotion Program was introduced in 2025 to help U.S. agriculture access new overseas markets, strengthen existing trade relationships, and diversify export destinations. It complements existing USDA export support programs such as the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program.
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