Kaptur Applauds USDA's $300 Million Investment To Diversify Export Markets For US Agriculture, Boosting Northwest Ohio Farmers And Producers

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and senior member of the subcommittee on Agriculture applauded the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) for its announcement of a $300 Million allocation aimed at diversifying export markets for American agriculture. This critical funding, part of the new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP), will support 66 US organizations in their efforts to expand into high-potential markets globally, directly benefiting the agricultural sector in Northwest Ohio.
 
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack introduced Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP) in October 2023, leveraging $1.2 Billion to assist US exporters in expanding their customer base beyond traditional markets. The program focuses on regions with growing consumer demand, such as Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, and South and Southeast Asia.
 
"Today's announcement is a game-changer for our hardworking farmers and agribusinesses in Northwest Ohio. By opening up new international markets, this funding will provide unprecedented opportunities for our local agricultural producers to increase their exports, enhance their competitiveness, and contribute to our economic vitality,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “Northwest Ohio's agricultural sector is a vital part of our communities and regional economy, with Canada, our largest fair-trading partner and trade ports through the St. Lawrence Seaway and our Great Lakes, this type of investment is a real win for our Heartland, America’s Great Lakes Region, and Northwest Ohio. This funding not only opens new doors for our farmers and producers but also ensures that the economic benefits of expanded trade are felt right here at home, because what America makes and grows, makes and grows America.”
 
Northwest Ohio, renowned for its diverse and productive agricultural landscape, stands to benefit significantly from this initiative. Key impacts include:

• Expanding Market Access: The RAPP funding will enable local agricultural organizations and producers to penetrate new and emerging markets. This is particularly important for specialty crops and products prevalent in Northwest Ohio, such as soybeans, corn, and dairy products.
• Supporting Local Agribusiness: By participating in trade missions, market research, and promotional events funded by RAPP, agribusinesses in District 9 can showcase their high-quality products to international buyers, fostering long-term trade relationships and increasing sales.
• Job Creation and Economic Growth: The expanded export opportunities will stimulate economic growth in Northwest Ohio. Increased demand for local agricultural products abroad translates to more jobs and higher incomes for farmers, producers, and associated industries in our district.
• Sustaining Small and Mid-Sized Farms: The RAPP initiative prioritizes support for small and mid-sized farms, which are the backbone of Northwest Ohio's rural economy. By diversifying their market opportunities, these farms can achieve greater financial stability and resilience.

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