Government Affairs

Almond Industry Delegation Visits U.S.
AEDC Annual Conference

Discussions during the U.S. Agricultural Export Development Council (USAEDC) meetings in Washington, D.C., confirmed that California Almond industry programs are in line with USDA core strategies – to address market access, market development and market intelligence. However, fragile economies (such as Afghanistan) continue to be a focus of the administration, particularly the role trade/exports can play in the rebuilding and revitalization of rural economies.

California Almond industry members emphasized the importance of stable, unfettered market access, including science-based standards, to ensure technical barriers are kept to a minimum. Another focus of USAEDC meetings was the administration’s National Export Initiative, with the goal of doubling exports in five years.