USDA, Foreign Agricultural Service:update

 

The following GAIN reports were released on July 2, 2025. _______     Australia: Tree Nut - Almond Annual Australia is the world’s second-largest producer and exporter of almonds, behind only the United States, and the industry continues to grow. Almond production for marketing year (MY) 2025/26 is forecast to reach a record 175,000 metric tons (MT), a 21 percent increase from the revised estimate for MY 2024/25. The previous year’s production was adversely impacted by excessive heat and reduced crop inputs, driven by weaker price expectations. With only modest growth in domestic consumption, largely due to population increases, the forecast record production is expected to drive almond exports to an all-time high of 143,000 MT in MY 2025/26.   China: Grain and Feed Update Post forecasts MY2025/26 China's corn production at 298 MMT, up 3 MMT from MY2024/25, while imports are projected at 8 MMT, up 1 MMT year-over-year but still well below historical levels. Wheat production is forecast at 141 MMT for MY2025/26, up 1 MMT from MY2024/25, with imports rising to 6 MMT from 4.5 MMT as feed demand increases. Rice production remains stable at 146 MMT for MY2025/26, unchanged from MY2024/25, while imports edge up to 2.6 MMT from 2.4 MMT. Sorghum imports are forecast to increase slightly to 5 MMT in MY2025/26 from 4.7 MMT in MY2024/25, while barley imports are expected flat at 10 MMT as Beijing continues policies to limit grain imports.   Cote d'Ivoire: Exporter Guide Annual In 2024, Côte d’Ivoire’s imports of U.S.-origin food and agricultural products grew to $42 million, up 121 percent compared to $19 million registered in 2023. Export growth in 2024, has been driven by the significant influx of U.S.-origin rice, valued at $22.3 million ( i.e., linked to USDA/FAS food security programing for the Coastal West Africa region), as well as by $13.4 million (record level) deliveries of U.S. soybean meal. In 2024, Côte d’Ivoire’s global food and agricultural products imports are $3.6 billion. In 2025 (January-May), Ivorian imports are coming in at $1.8 billion (up 26 percent). FAS Abidjan, Accra (Post) find that the country’s food retail industry is growing thanks to urbanization and a budding middle class. Inflation and high costs of living, notwithstanding, consumers are increasingly demanding quality products. In 2024, Ivorian imports of food processing ingredients surpassed $852 million, fueling the food processing industry’s demand for product that domestic producers cannot fill.   Indonesia: Drivers and Trends of US Agricultural Trade with Indonesia Opportunities and Challenges Following a lengthy period with a trade surplus, the U.S. trade balance with Indonesia in agricultural products began to reverse in 2021. Largely driven by increased palm oil exports, the highest trade deficit was recorded in 2022 at $1.8 billion. If the product scope is expanded to agricultural related products, including seafood and wood products, the deficit is even higher, valued at $3.7 billion in 2024. Overall, several factors substantially contributed to the U.S. agriculture trade deficit. These include increased competition (e.g., via tariff preferences and lower prices), non-tariff barriers (e.g., import licensing), and high U.S. demand for select Indonesian products. However, significant opportunities remain in this promising, albeit challenging, market, especially if the tariff and non-tariff barriers can be addressed.   Kazakhstan: FAIRS Country Report Annual This report is an overview of the general legal and technical requirements for food and agricultural imports imposed by Kazakhstan. Since the 2024 FAIRS Report was published, there have been no major updates to Kazakhstani food and agricultural import regulations and standards. Section X includes information on the newly launched online "Kazakhstan Trade Portal" outlining required processes for importing, exporting, and transiting products to and from Kazakhstan.   Kazakhstan: FAIRS Export Certificate Report Annual This report highlights export certification requirements for Kazakhstan. Please note that certification requirements may continue to change as Kazakhstan reforms its standards and regulations to meet Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and World Trade Organization (WTO) commitments. Exporters are advised to verify export certification requirements with their importer before shipment. There have been no updates to export certification requirements since June 2024.   Kenya: Agricultural Trade in Kenya - Opportunities for US Exporters in a Changing Landscape  Kenya’s economy grew robustly over the past decade, driven by a youthful population, a growing middle class, and significant expansion in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. While agriculture remains a vital part of the economy, the country faces challenges such as food insecurity, erratic weather, and land degradation. Despite these issues, agricultural trade has steadily expanded, with Kenya’s agricultural exports reaching $4.3 billion in 2024. Trade with the European Union (EU) and the United States shows a competitive landscape, with the EU benefiting from favorable agreements, while the United States faces challenges due to higher tariffs and regulatory barriers. However, U.S. agricultural exports have notable opportunities in key sectors like wheat, soybean oil, dairy ingredients, and processed foods, which cater to Kenya’s growing urban middle class.   Peru: Exporter Guide Peru is the fourth largest export market for U.S. agricultural products in South America. U.S.-origin food and agricultural product exports to Peru benefit significantly from the U.S. - Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (PTPA). The United States plays a pivotal role in Peru’s consumer-oriented food sector, accounting for 18 percent of the market share. In 2024, consumer-oriented imports from the world reached $2.0 billion. The growing middle class in Peru seeks high-quality products and there is a positive perception of U.S. food quality, variety, and innovation.   Philippines: Exporter Guide Annual Consistently ranking as the top Southeast Asia destination for U.S. consumer-oriented agricultural products, the Philippines presents a resilient market for U.S. food and beverage products, supported by a young workforce with high disposable income, a growing middle-income consumer base, and remittances from overseas workers. With long-standing trade ties and a strong consumer trust on U.S. origin products, the Philippines provides export opportunities driven by strong demand for fruit and vegetable juices, beef and pork products, tree nuts, fresh vegetables and fruits, poultry meat and products, wine and related products, condiments and sauces, dairy products, and processed vegetables.   Romania: Exporter Guide Annual Romania continues to be a growing market for U.S. food and agriculture exports. Romania’s total resident population was just over 19 million people as of early 2024, representing a marginal decrease from the previous year, with about 48 percent still living in rural areas. The annual rate of inflation saw a significant improvement, reaching an average of approximately 5.1 percent in 2024, a substantial drop from the 10.4 percent recorded in 2023. In 2024, Romania’s total agricultural imports reached an estimated $15.3 billion, marking a 4.6 percent increase over 2023. Of this, approximately 80 percent were sourced from EU Member States. Germany, Hungary, Poland, and the Netherlands remained among Romania’s major trading partners in 2024, with Ukraine also maintaining a notable presence. Meat, dairy, grains, oilseeds, and beverages continued to be the primary product import categories.   Senegal: Exporter Guide Annual This report provides an overview of Senegal’s food and agricultural market, based on engagements with major retailers, importers, processors, and food service operators throughout the country. Senegal’s growing urban population, rising middle class, and dynamic retail and hospitality sectors are driving demand for high-quality imported food products. While traditional markets remain dominant, modern retail chains and U.S.-product-focused niche stores are rapidly expanding, especially in urban areas like Dakar and Thiès. The hospitality sector, particularly around Dakar and the new Diamniadio hub, is also scaling in to accommodate increasing numbers of international visitors tied to increasing major events happening in Senegal and rising business travel linked to oil and gas investments. U.S. exporters have opportunities to supply competitively priced, halal-certified, and value-added products across the retail, processing, and food service sectors by partnering with well-established local distributors.   South Africa: Exporter Guide Annual South Africa boasts one of Africa's most developed and diverse economies, supported by a robust commercial sector and sophisticated distribution networks. While its self-sufficient agriculture industry meets most primary food needs, the country presents strong opportunities for U.S. exports, particularly consumer-oriented products and ingredients for its dynamic food processing sector. Shifting health-conscious habits and openness to new products are driving demand for specialized U.S. food and beverage exports. However, U.S. exporters face challenges such as local competition, preferential trade agreements favoring competitors, and an unfavorable exchange rate, which must be addressed to capitalize on South Africa’s growing demand for high-quality imports.   South Korea: Grain and Feed Update Marketing year (MY) 2025/26 rice production in the Republic of Korea (ROK) is forecast further down on reduced planted area approaching half of the government’s reduction target of 80,000 hectares. Delayed transplanting because of unfavorable weather in May postponed the official planting forecast announcement to July. Since Lee Jae-myung’s victory in the ROK snap presidential election on June 3, 2025, the Democratic Party is driving revisions to the Grain Management Act, which had been vetoed by the previous administration. Although demographic changes continue to drive down domestic rice consumption, exports of processed rice products are rising. Stocks of imported table rice continue to pile up as the Ministry refuses to resume weekly auctions of U.S. table rice, which have now been suspended for over 18 months. The government plans to transfer stocks of U.S. table rice from the 2022 crop year into alcoholic beverage production because it is no longer marketable for household consumption.   Sri Lanka: FAIRS Country Report Annual This report provides information on the regulations and procedures for the importation of food and agricultural products from the United States to the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (Sri Lanka). The report is supplemented by the Sri Lanka Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards (FAIRS) Export Certificate Report 2025.   Sri Lanka: FAIRS Export Certificate Report Annual This FAIRS report lists the export certificates required for food and agricultural products shipped to the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (Sri Lanka). An export certificate matrix is included in this report. The requirements listed are specific for consignments coming directly from the United States of America to Sri Lanka, or transshipped in sealed containers with invoices stating that Sri Lanka is the final destination.   Thailand: Grain and Feed Monthly Thai rice exports declined amid rising global supply and lower imports by major buyers. While fragrant rice prices saw a slight rise, prices for most other grades fell. Export volumes dropped year-on-year, but stronger demand from Iraq and China helped offset weaker markets elsewhere.   For more information, or for an archive of all FAS GAIN reports, please visit gain.fas.usda.gov/.

FY 2025 Food for Progress Notice of Funding Opportunity

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service announced today up to $208 million for the Food for Progress Program awards. This funding is described by the FY 2025 Notice of Funding Opportunity published on Grants.gov here: FY 2025 Food for Progress NOFO. Please see the NOFO for full details and information on how to apply: https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/food-progress

The application deadline for this NOFO is 5:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on July 31, 2025.

The following GAIN reports were released on July 1, 2025.

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Bosnia and Herzegovina: FAIRS Country Report Annual

This report provides information on the food and agricultural product import requirements for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Important points of contact for U.S. food exporters are listed in the appendices. All sections of the report have been reviewed and updated; however, no substantial changes have occurred over the last year.

 

Bosnia and Herzegovina: FAIRS Export Certificate Report Annual

This report offers guidance on the certificates and documents required for exporting food and agricultural products to Bosnia and Herzegovina, in accordance with current regulations. Report last updated: June 2025.

 

Brazil: Oilseeds and Products Update

Brazil’s soybean sector is projected to grow in 2025/26, with post revising the total projected planted area to 49.1 million hectares and estimated production reaching 176 million metric tons in 2026, driven by favorable weather and technological advances. Despite record yields, financial challenges persist in 2025, due to high input costs and rising interest rates. Export projections increased to 114 million metric tons for MY 2025/26, supported by expanded port capacity and growing demand from China. Domestic soybean processing is also expected to rise, fueled by livestock feed demand and biodiesel mandates, strengthening Brazil’s position in both international and internal markets.

 

Canada: FAIRS Country Report Annual

In June 2025, provisions impacting non-French trademarks on product packaging, labeling, public signage, posters, and commercial advertising, in Quebec’s French language legislation and regulations will come into force. Draft regulations and measures on various plastic packaging initiatives (minimum recycled content, recyclability labeling, reduction targets, etc.) continue to be on hold, delayed by pending resolution of a court case.

 

Canada: FAIRS Export Certificate Report Annual

This report highlights certification requirements for food and agricultural products exported to Canada and supplements the FAIRS Country Report.

 

Czech Republic: Exporter Guide Annual

Czechia has emerged as a promising market for high-value U.S. food and agricultural products, including tree nuts, fish and seafood, beef, distilled spirits, wine, and various food preparations. In 2024, total Czech agricultural products imports reached USD 15.2 billion. Imports of agricultural products from the United States totaled USD 172 million, a 16 percent increase from 2023. This exporter guide provides an economic and market overview, as well as demographic trends and practical tips to U.S. exporters on how to conduct business in the Czech Republic. The report additionally provides insight on the food retail and food service sectors, the best market entry strategy, and the best high-value product prospects.

 

Ecuador: Exporter Guide Annual

This report serves as a road map for U.S. companies exporting to Ecuador. While Ecuador is a challenging market for U.S. food and agricultural products, it is also one of opportunities. Domestic production cannot meet consumer demand, necessitating continued imports. Additionally, younger and lower to middle-income consumers’ appetite for imported products continues to grow despite an often-challenging economic situation. The Ecuador-EU Free Trade Agreement continues to threaten the United States’ market share in processed and fresh food products.

India: Exporter Guide Annual

India presents both significant opportunities and notable challenges for U.S. food and beverage exports. As the world’s fastest-growing major economy and currently the fifth largest globally, India is projected to rise to third place by 2028. With nearly 65 percent of its population under the age of 35 and a rapidly growing work force, consumer demand is shifting toward diverse, high-quality, and health-conscious food and beverage options. This demand is further propelled by increasing affluence, rapid digitalization, and the growth of organized retail across emerging urban centers. However, U.S. exporters face several hurdles, including high tariffs, inconsistent and complex regulatory frameworks, and strong competition from both domestic and international suppliers. This report will provide details about the market and highlight opportunities and challenges for U.S. exporters.

 

Indonesia: Exporter Guide Annual

Indonesia, Southeast Asia’s largest economy with a population of 282 million, presents significant opportunities for U.S. exporters despite regulatory challenges, declining middle-class purchasing power, and tariff preferences granted to our major competitors. In 2024, the United States exported $3 billion of agricultural products to Indonesia with major products including soybeans, livestock feed ingredients, dairy products, wheat, cotton, beef, and fresh fruit. Tariff and non-tariff barriers remain, such as import licensing and facility registration requirements. In addition, halal certification requirements will apply to most agricultural products by October 2026. However, Indonesia’s tropical climate and rising demand for food products support continued growth in high-value agricultural imports. To succeed in this challenging but lucrative market, U.S. exporters should work closely with local importers, participate in major trade shows, and understand Indonesia’s relationship-focused business culture.

 

Japan: Exporter Guide Annual

The Japanese food market was valued at $424 billion in 2023 with retail sales accounting for $198 billion (47 percent) and foodservice sales accounting for $226 billion (53 percent). Japan relies on imports from other countries for the bulk of its food supply. The United States was the leading supplier of consumer-oriented agricultural products with a 15 percent market share. The Japanese market is highly competitive with consumers seeking quality, value, and convenience. This report serves as an all-in-one resource for U.S. exporters to Japan with information on the food and beverage market, business culture, consumer preferences, import regulations, trends, and the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement. Links to additional resources are provided in the report with further details on the preceding topics.

 

Lithuania: Exporter Guide Annual

Lithuania is the largest market for food and beverage products within the three Baltic States (Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia). With a population of 2.9 million people and a high GDP per capita, Lithuania is a growing market for U.S. food and agricultural products. Lithuania offers an ideal location for imports destined to all three Baltic States, serving a joint population of 6 million customers. The Russia-Ukraine war, which started in February 2022, sent shock waves through the Lithuanian economy, disrupting trade and contributing to sharp increases in energy, fuel, and food prices. These factors continued to affect Lithuania’s economy throughout 2024. Lithuania’s total 2024 imports of food, agricultural, and related products were valued at over $6 billion, with U.S. imports accounting for a record $111 million. U.S. products with strong sales potential include fish and seafood, tree nuts, distilled spirits, dried fruit, and innovative food ingredients.

 

Netherlands: Exporter Guide Annual

The exporter guide provides an economic and market overview, as well as demographic trends and practical tips to U.S. exporters on how to conduct business in the Netherlands. The report additionally describes three market sectors (food retail, food service, and food processing), the best market entry strategy, and the best high-value product prospects, and focuses exclusively on consumer-oriented products.

 

 

For more information, or for an archive of all FAS GAIN reports, please visit gain.fas.usda.gov/.

USDA Trade Mission to Expand Agricultural Exports in the Dominican Republic

WASHINGTON, July 1, 2025 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture will lead a high-impact trade mission to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, from July 13–17 to expand market access and boost U.S. agricultural exports. The delegation includes 47 agribusinesses, trade organizations, and officials from Colorado, Montana, and Wisconsin departments of agriculture. 

“USDA is committed to growing export opportunities for American farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses,” said Deputy Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering, who will lead the mission. “This trade mission will connect U.S. exporters with key buyers, tapping into Latin America’s growing demand for high-quality American agricultural products, supporting rural prosperity and keeping American agricultural products globally competitive.”

With an expanding middle class, economic growth and a burgeoning hotel and restaurant industry, the Dominican Republic offers U.S. producers a stable and sustainable market in the Caribbean Basin. The country is the fourth-largest market for U.S. agricultural exports in the Western Hemisphere and the top market within the Central America Free Trade Agreement-Dominican Republic (CAFTA-DR) region, which includes Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

Thanks to CAFTA-DR, U.S. exports to the Dominican Republic have increased from $800 million in 2007 to $2.2 billion in 2024, with the U.S. currently supplying 44 percent of the country’s agricultural imports, supporting around 15,000 American jobs. Between 2023 and 2024 alone, exports increased 6 percent.

Participants will meet with buyers from the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica to gain market insights and forge new partnerships. USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service staff and regional experts will provide in-depth market briefings, site visits and networking events to maximize trade opportunities. 

Other participants include:

1. Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute – Juneau, Alaska
2. Boston Agrex LLC – Norwell, Mass.
3. California Dairies – Visalia, Calif. 
4. California Table Grape Commission – Fresno, Calif.
5. Colorado Department of Agriculture – Broomfield, Colo.
6. Darigold Inc – Seattle, Wash. 
7. DoVen Foods LLC – Miami, Fla.
8. Foodlink Group Inc. – Miami, Fla.
9. Globex International – New York, N.Y.
10. Grand Napa Vineyards - Napa, Calif.
11. Hoogwegt U.S. Inc. – Lake Forest, Ill. 
12. IslandJon North America LLC – Atlanta, Ga.
13. James Farrell & Co. – Bellevue, Wash. 
14. Lamex Agrifoods Inc. – Miami, Fla.
15. Lawrence Wholesale LLC – Vernon, Calif.
16. Leprino – Denver, Colo. 
17. Little Toad Creek LLC - Silver City, N.M.
18. MacDonald Meat Company - Seattle, Wash. 
19. Merus LLC – Minneapolis, Minn.
20. Metafoods LLC – Atlanta, Ga.
21. Old Fashioned Cheese – Mayville, Wis. 
22. Pangea Growers Group – Boca Raton, Fla.
23. Portal Pacific US – Rocklin, Calif.
24. Prime International LLC – Logan, Utah
25. Riceland – Stuttgart, Ark.
26. Salt River Sisters – Harrodsburg, Ky.
27. Scout & Zoe’s – Anderson, Ind.
28. Scratch Food Group – Atlanta, Ga.
29. SMAA Food Exports LLC – Charlotte, N.C.
30. Stewco Farms – Bloomfield, Mo.
31. Supreme Rice – Crowley, La.
32. Sure Good Foods USA – Atlanta, Ga.
33. Talmera USA Inc. – Los Angeles, Calif.
34. Tropical Foods LLC – Miami, Fla. 
35. Trutana Foods – Great Falls, Mont.
36. U.S. Dairy Export Council – Arlington, Va. 
37. U.S. Grains Council – Washington, D.C. 
38. U.S. Soybean Export Council – Chesterfield, Mo
39. US Agricom Inc. – Doral, Fla.
40. US Commodity Food Sales LLC– Doral, Fla.
41. US Dry Bean Council – Frankenmuth, Mich. 
42. US Rice Producers Association – Katy, Texas 
43. USA Rice – Arlington, Va. 
44. Washington Apple Commission - Wenatchee, Wash.
45. Western United States Agriculture Trade Association – Vancouver, Wash. 
46. Wisoman Foods Inc. – Hayward, Calif.
47. Wonderful Citrus - Delano, Calif.

USDA’s trade mission to the Dominican Republic is part of USDA’s broader 2025 export promotion strategy. So far this year, USDA has led trade missions to Hong Kong, Thailand, Peru, and Guatemala. Missions to Taiwan and Mexico are planned in the coming months.

For more information on USDA trade missions, visit https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-missions.  

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The following GAIN reports were released on June 30, 2025.

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Brazil: COP30 Preparations and Logistical Challenges

Brazil will host the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30), to take place in Belém, Pará, from November 10-21, 2025. The choice of hosting COP30 in the city was praised by the Brazilian government, but there are concerns related to infrastructure and logistics, including the high cost of lodging, accommodations, mobility, and the legacy of the conference for the city’s residents. The agricultural and livestock sector is responsible for nearly 30 percent of Brazilian emissions (or over 70 percent when including emissions from deforestation directly or indirectly caused by the sector) and is working to adhere to Brazil's climate commitments, offering low-carbon solutions such as the use of biofuels and innovative agricultural practices.

 

Colombia: Exporter Guide Annual

This report provides food and beverage exporters guidance on how to enter the Colombian market. In 2024 the United States exported $4.5 billion in agricultural products to Colombia, making it the 6th largest agricultural export market for the United States.

 

Germany: Exporter Guide Annual

Germany has almost 84 million of the world’s wealthiest consumers and is by far the biggest market in the European Union. The German market offers good opportunities for U.S. exporters of consumer-oriented agricultural products. In 2024, total U.S. exports of agricultural and related products to Germany reached almost USD 2.7 billion. The largest segments were – apart from soybeans – tree nuts, distilled spirits, seafood products, food preparations, and wine. This report provides U.S. exporters with background information and suggestions for entering the German market.

 

Japan: Action Plan to Introduce E10 and E20 in Japan

On June 10, 2025, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) introduced an action plan to introduce E10 and E20 gasoline. As part of this plan, Japan aims to introduce a nationwide E10 gasoline option by 2030. To prepare for this transition, METI plans to conduct a smaller-scale introduction of E10 gasoline in 2028. Additionally, METI has proposed a revised gasoline base-line greenhouse gas (GHG) emission value for gasoline and is planning to incorporate GHG default values for ethanol derived from Brazilian corn, Thai sugarcane, and Thai cassava.

 

Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia to Require the Use of Pallets for All Containerized Cargo Shipments 

The Saudi Arabian General Authority of Ports (Mawani), in coordination with the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, announced its intention to require the use of pallets for all containerized cargo shipments to the Kingdom's ports. The implementation period began on June 1, 2025, and will last for a period of one year, followed by mandatory compliance. Please note the exemptions from the pending requirement changes listed in the announcement.

 

Senegal: 2025 Senegal Peanut Annual

Senegal MY 2025/26 peanut area harvested is forecast at 850,000 HA, a five percent year-over-year increase. Senegal’s subsidized prices for seeds and fertilizers are expected to motivate farmers to plant more. MY 2025/26 peanut production is forecast at 770,000 MT. Senegal’s provisional statistical data estimates MY 2024/25 peanut production at 731,000 MT, a 56 percent decrease compared to the previous year due to a new statistical reference base adopted by Senegal in MY 2024/25. This has had the effect of lowering production numbers for almost all crops including peanut. The minimum farm gate price for MY2024/25 was fixed by Senegal at 305 FCFA ($0.51), a nine percent increase from the previous year.

 

Singapore: Exporter Guide Annual

Singapore’s economy expanded 4.4 percent in 2024 and is expected to slow in 2025 due to global uncertainties and trade conflicts. The city-state is heavily reliant on imports for food and energy and sources from a total of 187 countries globally to ensure a consistent supply. It has a retail foods sector which is diverse, competitive, and highly dynamic, largely driven by international tourism and consumer spending. Singapore’s total agricultural and related product imports in 2024 reached $18.2 billion USD, the United States has a market share of six percent.

 

Tanzania: Election Year Excise Duty Increase to Push Poultry Importers to the Brink in Zanzibar

In a budget bill passed on June 13, 2025, the semi-autonomous Zanzibar government raised the excise duty on imported frozen chicken from approximately USD $0.12 per kilogram to approximately USD $0.39 per kilogram, with a double aim to protect the domestic poultry industry and generate USD $2.75 million in revenue. The policy change will increase costs for U.S. exporters, limit market access, drive consumer prices higher, and disrupt supply, given the lack of a favorable climate and domestic inputs in Zanzibar for domestic poultry production.

 

For more information, or for an archive of all FAS GAIN reports, please visit gain.fas.usda.gov/.

The following GAIN reports were released on June 27, 2025.

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Bangladesh: FAIRS Country Report Annual

The FAIRS Annual Country Report contains an overview of Bangladesh’s agricultural and food products import regulations. In addition to an overview of the Government of Bangladesh’s regulatory infrastructure on production and import control policies this report includes FAS/Dhaka’s assessment of laws and requirements for food and agricultural imports. Post has made substantive changes in Sections IV, V, VI, and X.

 

Bangladesh: FAIRS Export Certificate Report Annual

This report outlines the technical requirements and certificates for exporting food and agricultural products to Bangladesh. Post has made changes to Sections, I, II, and IV.

 

Burma: FAIRS Export Certificate Report Annual

Burma’s certification requirements for U.S. exports have not changed since 2024. This report lists the major certificates required by Burma’s government agencies for agricultural imports from the United States.

 

Mexico: The United States and Mexico Railroad Supply Chain and Agricultural Trade

In 2024, Mexico imported more than 35 million metric tons of grains from the United States. The North American freight rail network is an increasingly important mode of transport for handling the growth in this trade. Based on USDA’s Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) inspection data, more than 63 percent of grain inspected for export to Mexico is shipped by rail, 35 percent by maritime vessel, and less than 1 percent by truck.

 

Pakistan: Grain and Feed Update

As a result of the increase in the 2025/26 production estimate, the 2025/26 wheat import forecast is reduced to 1 million tons. Due to the pace of exports over the first seven months of the marketing year, and continued optimistic prospects, the 2024/25 rice export forecast is increased to 6 million tons.

 

Philippines: Grain and Feed Update

FAS Manila maintains its overall forecast for milled rice and wheat in Marketing Year (MY) 2025/26, while increasing its forecast for corn production, area harvested, and consumption. Post increases its estimates on milled rice and corn production in MY 2024/25 due to more favorable weather conditions beginning the first quarter of 2025. Continued support from the government for the rice industry and the sale of subsidized milled rice supports the estimated increase in rice production. Corn farmers also have an increased technical knowledge in handling the fall armyworm, which contributes to the estimated increase in corn production in MY 2024/25. FAS Manila maintains its estimates on wheat imports and consumption in MY 2024/25 due to sustained demand for milling wheat, including feed wheat for the aquaculture industry.

 

Poland: Exporter Guide Annual

Poland is Central and Eastern Europe’s largest market for food and beverage products. With a population of 38 million people, Poland is a growing market for U.S. food and agricultural products. The Russia-Ukraine war, which started in February 2022, sent shock waves through the Polish economy, disrupting trade and contributing to sharp increases in energy, fuel and food prices. These factors continued to affect Poland’s economy throughout 2024. Poland’s total 2024 imports of food, agricultural, and related products were valued at over $42 billion, with U.S. imports accounting for $730 million. U.S. products with strong sales potential – apart from soybeans – include distilled spirits, wine, tree nuts, fish and seafood, beef, dried fruit, condiments, and innovative food ingredients.

 

South Africa: Southern Africa Shortages Boost United States Corn and Soybean Exports Benefiting American Farmers

In 2024, Southern Africa faced a severe drought, leading to a significant decline in corn and soybean production, which caused rising food inflation and economic challenges. FAS/Pretoria worked with industry and government to resolve asynchronous genetically engineered crop approvals between the United States and South Africa, this facilitated the import of U.S. corn and soybeans. As a result, the United States exported corn and soybeans to the region, valued at $140 million, which is the highest export value in the past 30 years. This trade not only bolstered Southern Africa's food supply and strengthened long-term trade relationships but also delivered substantial economic benefits to the U.S. agricultural sector, underscoring the importance of American agriculture in addressing global food security challenges.

 

Tanzania: Zanzibar Exporter Guide

Zanzibar presents strong potential for U.S. food and beverage exports, driven by tourism, urbanization, and demand for quality products. With over 80 percent of food imported, key opportunities include beverages, wheat, poultry, oil, confectioneries, and rice. The U.S. can leverage its quality advantage amid strong competition to expand its market share.

 

Thailand: Exporter Guide Annual

Thailand offers strong potential for U.S. agricultural exports, which reached $1.4 billion in 2024. The United States ranked as Thailand’s 9th largest supplier of consumer-oriented products, with $429 million in exports. This report provides practical tips for U.S. agricultural exporters on how to conduct business in Thailand, including information on market overview, export opportunities, local business practices, a review of consumer preferences, and market sector structure and trends.

 

Vietnam: Vietnam Issues Amendment to Terrestrial Animal Product Quarantine Regulations

On June 24, 2025, Vietnam issued Circular No. 28, amending Circular No. 25/2016 on the quarantine of terrestrial animals and their products. Despite feedback from trading partners and industry stakeholders, Vietnam maintained its zero-tolerance policy for Salmonella. The key change is a reduction in sampling frequency (once a history of compliance is established) for Salmonella spp. and E. coli O157:H7 in high-risk imported animal products for human consumption. This includes frozen/chilled meat, poultry, edible offal, and byproducts. Effective July 1, 2025, the amendment aims to improve import control efficiency while maintaining strict safety standards. While the sampling frequency adjustment may ease inspection burdens, the continued zero-tolerance approach could still impact compliance and rejection rates. Companies should be prepared to adapt to sampling strategies based on consignment performance.

 

For more information, or for an archive of all FAS GAIN reports, please visit gain.fas.usda.gov/.

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