Photo of NASDA and Congressional Agricultural Trade Caucus members taken at a meeting on Capitol Hill. Front row: Commissioner Amanda Beal (ME), Director Director Lisa Charpilloz Hanson (OR), Director Paul Brierley (AZ) and Director Derek Sandison (WA). Back row: United States Representatives Adrian Smith (R-NE) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Commissioner Doug Goehring (ND) and NASDA President, Secretary Wes Ward (AR).
ARLINGTON, Va. — Today, the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, alongside 20+ state agriculture departments, celebrates National Agriculture Trade Day. This day highlights the crucial role agricultural trade plays in boosting state economies and supporting farmers and ranchers while underscoring the need for policies that expand market opportunities and keep U.S. agriculture competitive.
“Today, we recognize the vital role of international trade in bolstering the American economy and expanding trade opportunities for local food producers,” said NASDA CEO Ted McKinney. “By connecting U.S. agriculture with new global marketplaces, we create long-term growth and greater opportunities for farmers and ranchers across the country.”
National Agriculture Trade Day serves as an opportunity to celebrate American farmers, ranchers and agricultural businesses for their vital contributions to feeding the world.
National Ag Trade Day, as part of National Ag Week, seeks to raise awareness about the benefits of agricultural trade, while advocating for the development of new markets to further support U.S farmers, ranchers and food producers. In 2023, agriculture, food and related industries contributed 5.5% to U.S. gross domestic product and provided 10.4% of U.S. employment, underscoring the sector’s economic significance.
To learn more about how your commissioner, secretary or director promotes agricultural products from your state, visit nasda.org/nationalagtradeday. Join the conversation by following NASDA on social media and using #AgTradeDay in your social media posts!
