USDA to Lead Agricultural Trade Mission to PH

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will lead a trade mission to Manila, Philippines, from April 13–16, 2026, to expand market access for American farmers, ranchers, and producers.  

According to USDA, this mission follows a landmark trade agreement negotiated by President Donald Trump in July last year which opened new opportunities for U.S. agricultural exports to the Philippines.

Deputy Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering will lead the mission, heading a delegation of 58 U.S. agribusinesses, trade associations, and representatives from four State departments of agriculture. 

“USDA is committed to getting American farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses better access to strong markets and fair opportunities abroad,” Deputy Undersecretary Bekkering said. “Since the Philippines is one of the fastest-growing markets in Asia, this mission will connect U.S. exporters directly with reliable buyers, strengthen our trade relationship, and help keep American agriculture globally competitive.”  

The Philippines is the tenth‑largest market for U.S. agricultural and food products, averaging USD3.4 billion in annual exports over the past five years. With a population of 118 million, a rapidly expanding middle class, and strong consumer preference for U.S. products, the Philippines offers enormous growth potential for American exporters. 

During the visit, USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service staff and regional experts will host market briefings, site visits, and business-to-business meetings with buyers from the Philippines.  

State departments of agriculture from Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska and Wisconsin will join the mission alongside the 58 agribusinesses and trade associations.

In 2025, USDA trade missions connected more than 200 U.S. companies with buyers in Hong Kong, Thailand, Peru, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Taiwan and Mexico, generating projected 12‑month sales of USD125 million. USDA will continue expanding export opportunities in 2026 with upcoming missions planned for Australia and Vietnam.