U.S.
Agricultural Trade
Agricultural trade throughout the world
is changing. Keeping up with fluctuations in markets, new and amended
regulations, and issues that affect trade is challenging. Technology and
fewer trade restrictions have opened international markets for both
buyers and sellers.
U.S. agricultural trade programs are designed to
develop and expand commercial outlets for U.S. commodities and to provide
international food assistance. Farmers in the United States produce more
with the same or even fewer resources than 50 years ago. American
farmers must look to foreign markets because production and production
capacity is increasing faster than domestic demand.
Trade provides U.S. consumers with access
to a wider variety of foods at reasonable prices, including those not
produced domestically. Trade brings tropical fruits, coffee, and exotic cheeses to American consumers. Imports make fresh fruits and
vegetables, such as asparagus and grapes, available at affordable prices
during winter months. U.S. food processors rely on global markets for
many food ingredients, such as cocoa (combined with domestic sugar
and dairy products) for chocolate.
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