MANILA, Philippines — The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will lead a trade mission to the Philippines in April to expand market access for at least 58 American farmers, ranchers, and producers.
The USDA noted that the Philippines was the 10th largest market for US agricultural and food products, averaging $3.4 billion in annual exports over the past five years.
The mission from Apr 13 to 16 “follows a landmark trade agreement negotiated by President Donald Trump in July 2025, which opened new opportunities for US agricultural exports to the Philippines,” the USDA said on Monday.
The US Embassy in Manila shared the USDA’s announcement on Wednesday.
Deputy Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering will lead a delegation of 58 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,” said Bekkering in a statement.
“Since the Philippines is one of the fastest-growing markets in Asia, this mission will connect US exporters directly with reliable buyers, strengthen our trade relationship, and help keep American agriculture globally competitive,” she said.
With a population of 118 million, a rapidly expanding middle class, and strong consumer preference for US products, the Philippines “offers enormous growth potential for American exporters,” the USDA added.
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.
