The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is bringing 58 American agribusinesses and trade associations to Manila from April 13–16, 2026, in a mission aimed at expanding market access and strengthening trade ties with one of Asia’s fastest-growing markets.
Deputy Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering will lead the delegation, which also includes representatives from the state departments of agriculture in Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska, and Wisconsin.
“USDA is committed to giving American farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses better access to strong markets and fair opportunities abroad,” Bekkering said. “The Philippines offers enormous growth potential. This mission will connect U.S. exporters directly with reliable buyers, strengthen our trade relationship, and keep American agriculture globally competitive.”
The Philippines ranks as the tenth-largest market for U.S. agricultural products, averaging $3.4 billion in annual exports over the past five years. During the visit, USDA staff and regional experts will host market briefings, site visits, and business-to-business meetings with Philippine buyers.
The delegation features companies and trade associations across grains, dairy, meat, produce, seafood, beverages, and specialty foods, including American Egg Board, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, California Milk Advisory Board, and U.S. Meat Export Federation.
In 2025, USDA trade missions connected more than 200 U.S. companies with buyers worldwide, generating projected 12-month sales of $125 million. Similar missions are planned for Australia and Vietnam in 2026.