WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture will lead a trade mission to the Philippines later this month, targeting expanded market access and new business opportunities for American farmers, ranchers and food producers.
The mission is scheduled for April 13 through April 16 and follows a trade agreement reached in July 2025 that opened additional pathways for U.S. agricultural exports to the Southeast Asian nation.
Michelle Bekkering, USDA Deputy Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, will lead the delegation. She said the effort is part of a broader strategy to strengthen global market access for U.S. agriculture.
“USDA is committed to getting American farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses better access to strong markets and fair opportunities abroad,” Bekkering said. “This mission will connect U.S. exporters to reliable buyers in one of Asia’s fastest-growing markets.”
The Philippines represents a key trading partner for the United States. It currently ranks as the tenth-largest market for U.S. agricultural and food products, with exports averaging $3.4 billion annually over the past five years.
Officials say the country’s economic growth, combined with a population of approximately 118 million people and a rapidly expanding middle class, is driving increased demand for high-quality imported food products — including those from the United States.
The trade mission will focus on strengthening commercial ties through business-to-business meetings, site visits and networking opportunities designed to connect U.S. exporters with Filipino importers and distributors.
USDA officials say the initiative is expected to support long-term growth in U.S. agricultural exports while reinforcing the competitiveness of American producers in global markets.
The Philippines has consistently shown strong consumer preference for U.S. food and agricultural products, positioning it as a high-potential destination for continued export expansion.