The USDA is providing $8.3 million in funding to 11 recipients to combat trade barriers and expand international markets for U.S. specialty crops. The funding comes through the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops (TASC) program. It helps growers overcome sanitary, phytosanitary and technical barriers hindering exports.

Recipients of the funding include the California Table Grape Export Association and the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council. These investments are part of USDA’s effort to reduce the nearly $50 billion agricultural trade deficit by enhancing global access for American farm products.

Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg said the program provides critical tools for producers and strengthens rural economies by connecting safe, high-quality U.S. products with growing overseas markets.

Each dollar invested in USDA market development programs generates an estimated $24.50 in returns. TASC allocates about $9 million annually to fund projects that expand specialty crop exports and support marketing initiatives led by trade associations, cooperatives, state agencies, and small businesses.

Read more about USDA funding to address specialty crop trade barriers here.