The Quality Samples Program (QSP) helps U.S. agricultural trade organizations
provide small samples of their agricultural products to potential importers in
emerging markets overseas.
Focusing on industry and manufacturing, as opposed to end-use consumers, it
permits potential customers to discover U.S. quality. It also allows
manufacturers overseas to do test runs to assess how U.S. food and fiber
products can best meet their production needs. In 2006, USDA provided
allocations totaling $1.8 million to trade associations and state agricultural
organizations under this program.
How the program benefits U.S. agriculture: QSP stimulates interest
and demand for U.S. agricultural products. The better opportunities for
agricultural exports ripple throughout the U.S. economy. In 2007, agricultural
exports are forecast to reach $77 billion, which will generate more American
jobs in many off-farm activities like transportation, food processing,
packaging, storing, and financing.
How the program works: Each year, USDA announces an application
period for participation in the QSP, publishing it in the Federal Register.
Trade organizations and private firms can submit QSP proposals to USDA as part
of the Unified Export Strategy (UES).
QSP applications undergo a competitive review process based on criteria
specified in the Federal Register announcement. Participants who are
approved for QSP funding obtain commodity samples, export them and provide the
importer the technical assistance necessary to use the sample properly. When a
project is finished, USDA reimburses the participants for the costs of procuring
and exporting the samples. The technical assistance component is not covered by
the program.
Priority is given to projects targeting developing nations or regions with a
per capita income of less than $10,725 and a population greater than one
million. Priority is also given to projects designed to expand exports where a
U.S. commodity’s market share is 10 percent or less.
USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) funds the program, which is
authorized under the CCC Charter Act.
What commodities are covered: USDA has approved QSP proposals to
promote a wide variety of U.S. commodities, including wheat, citrus,
cranberries, mohair, hides, rice, and soybeans. Many other commodities are
eligible.
Where to get information:
To submit a QSP proposal or to
learn more about the program, contact the USDA-FAS Grants Management Branch,
STOP 1052, 1400 Independence Ave., Washington, DC 20250-1052; Phone: (202)
690-4058, Fax: (202) 690-0193; E-mail: