Foreign Market Development (FMD) Cooperator Program
FMD funding doubled. New infrastructure subprogram addresses port and storage damage in new markets. Funding rises from $34.5M to $70.5M (FY2027) and $82M annually (FY2028-2031).
What FMD does
The Foreign Market Development (FMD) Cooperator Program provides cost-share funding to U.S. trade organizations to develop, maintain, and expand foreign markets for U.S. agricultural commodities.
FMD differs from MAP in scope: FMD focuses on generic commodity promotion (e.g., U.S. soybeans generally), while MAP can fund branded promotion (e.g., specific company brands).
FMD partners include U.S. Wheat Associates, U.S. Soybean Export Council, U.S. Grains Council, USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, U.S. Meat Export Federation, and others.
What changed in the Farm Bill 2.0
1. Funding doubles
| Fiscal year | FMD funding |
|---|---|
| FY2026 | $34.5M (current) |
| FY2027 | $70.5M |
| FY2028 | $82M |
| FY2029 | $82M |
| FY2030 | $82M |
| FY2031 | $82M |
2. New infrastructure subprogram
A brand-new FMD subprogram authorizes USDA to enter into contracts to enhance infrastructure capabilities in new and developing foreign markets, to ensure U.S. agricultural commodities aren’t damaged or lost due to infrastructure deficiencies.
Funding for the subprogram:
- FY2027: up to $1.5M
- FY2028+: up to $5M annually
This addresses problems like:
- Inadequate port facilities for cold-chain commodities
- Storage infrastructure failures in new markets
- Loading/unloading equipment limitations
Who FMD matters for
- U.S. commodity organizations doing foreign market development
- Generic commodity promotion programs (vs. branded product promotion under MAP)
- U.S. exporters to emerging markets where infrastructure is challenging
- Foreign infrastructure development partners