trade

USApple forecasts 2024-25 apple crop at 260 million bushels

The U.S. Apple Association (USApple) is predicting the 2024-25 calendar year (CY) apple crop will be 259.5 million bushels, a 10.1% decrease compared to the 2023-24 season. After record production last year, apple growers expect... more »

Fresh produce import inspection fee changes proposed

Imported produce fees may see changes. The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is proposing altering the regulations governing the inspection and certification of imported fresh fruits, vegetables and other products. The proposed changes, announced on... more »

Tree fruit, berries, grapes receive USDA market promotion funds

Apples, cherries, pears, cranberries, table grapes and watermelons are among the commodities receiving federal funds for promotion and market development funding. The funding is part of $300 million allocated to 66 U.S. organizations under the... more »

Washington Apple Commission taps Florida tomato leader as new head

The new head of the Washington Apple Commission (WAC) returns to the Evergreen State after working for the business interests of Florida tomato growers. Michael Schadler, executive vice president of the Florida Tomato Exchange (FTE),... more »

Report: US ag exports generate $412B economic output in 2022

The value of U.S. agricultural exports totaled $197.4 billion in 2022 and generated $214.6 billion in economic activity for a total economic output of $412 billion, according to new USDA numbers. Exports comprised both commodities... more »

Georgia association weighs in on H-2A rules, farm bill

The Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (GFVGA) is weighing in on the Department of Labor’s H-2A rules and the proposed 2024 farm bill. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) rules further threaten the viability... more »

Georgia blueberry growers extend assessment

Georgia blueberry growers have approved extending their state's blueberry assessment. As a result of the vote, the Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Blueberries will continue for another three years. On April 24, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner... more »

Fryhover plans to retire from Washington Apple Commission

Todd Fryhover, president of the Washington Apple Commission, plans to retire in November, after 18 years with the group. He joined the commission in 2006 in a consultancy role and became president in December 2008.... more »

Rural Voices USA slams Trump’s tariff plan

Rural Voices USA, a bipartisan organization that promotes the interests of rural Americans, is applauding Nikki Haley for criticizing Donald Trump’s tariff plan. The group states the plan would have a devastating impact on farmers,... more »

Bill seeks protections for specialty crop exports

U.S. senators and representatives have introduced legislation designed to help farmers fight trade barriers to sell specialty crops in export markets. The Specialty Crops Reporting on Opportunities and Promotion Act (Specialty CROP Act), introduced on... more »