Bipartisan bill aims to increase funding for U.S. farm export programs to expand global trade

Representative Dan Newhouse (R-WA) has introduced the Agriculture Export Promotion Act of 2025, a bipartisan bill aimed at increasing funding for the Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development Program (FMD). The legislation seeks to expand export opportunities for American farmers, strengthen global market access, and enhance U.S. agricultural competitiveness.

Newhouse emphasized the importance of foreign markets for farmers in Central Washington and across the country. He noted that expanding export opportunities will ensure American farmers remain competitive in a challenging global trade environment. The bill has gained bipartisan support from Representatives Tracey Mann (R-KS), Brad Finstad (R-MN), Ashley Hinson (R-IA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Kim Schrier (D-WA), Jim Costa (D-CA), and Chellie Pingree (D-ME).

Supporters of the bill highlighted its potential impact on U.S. agriculture, especially as American farmers face increasing competition and a historic $45.5 billion agricultural trade deficit. Representative Mann stressed that agricultural trade is crucial to the U.S. economy and that investing in proven programs like MAP and FMD will increase export revenue, create jobs, and support rural economies. Representative Finstad echoed this, emphasizing that targeted investments in agricultural trade are necessary to establish new markets and help producers remain competitive.

Representative Hinson underscored that MAP and FMD have consistently helped American producers access export markets, yielding a strong return on investment. Representative Panetta added that the legislation would ensure farmers have the resources needed to expand their reach, grow their businesses, and support local economies, especially as foreign competitors ramp up trade promotion efforts. Representative Costa reinforced the importance of opening new markets for American agricultural products, highlighting food security as a global issue requiring proactive trade policies.

Representative Schrier pointed to the direct benefits for farmers in her district, particularly those producing apples, cherries, and wheat, stating that expanded funding would help them navigate rising costs, supply chain issues, extreme weather, and tariff challenges. Representative Pingree emphasized the role of agricultural trade in supporting Maine’s farmers and fishermen, particularly those exporting wild blueberries, potatoes, and lobsters. She noted that increasing support for MAP and FMD would ensure American producers remain competitive in an increasingly globalized marketplace.

The Agriculture Export Promotion Act of 2025 is part of broader efforts to strengthen U.S. agricultural trade policies and ensure that American farmers and producers can effectively compete in international markets. If enacted, the legislation could provide essential support to rural economies, create new export opportunities, and improve food security while reinforcing the position of U.S. agriculture on the global stage.

For more information:
Dan Newhouse
Tel: +1 202 225-5816
www.newhouse.house.gov

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