The following GAIN reports were released on April 14, 2026. _______
On March 26, 2026, China submitted a WTO notification G/TBT/N/CHN/1964/Add.2 regarding the implementation of the Regulations of the People's Republic of China on the Customs Administration of Registration of Overseas Manufacturers of Imported Food. This notification introduces China's risk assessment report to justify its regulatory framework for overseas facility registration. This report provides an unofficial translation of the risk assessment. China’s pet industry reached $43.4 billion in 2025, largely driven by the growth in per-pet spending and reflecting a shift from volume-driven to value-driven expansion. Younger consumers are shaping market trends with higher expectations for functionality, nutrition, and digital engagement, while online channels continue to support growth for both domestic and imported products. Offline retail remains resilient in core cities. Meanwhile, niche and exotic pets are becoming increasingly popular, highlighting the diversity of pet ownership and specialized consumption needs. Global LA is partnering with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and the Western United States Agricultural Trade Association (WUSATA) to organize a USA Pavilion at the 2026 Hong Kong Food Expo PRO trade show. The exhibition will be held August 13-15, 2026, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. U.S. food and beverage companies are invited to participate in shared booth space at a discounted rate. A webinar series will provide market information, details on WUSATA's FundMatch Program and other funding resources, and regulations and logistical guidance for exporting food products to Hong Kong. Guatemala’s sugar industry is expected to continue expanding in marketing year 2026/27, with production forecast at 2.821 million metric tons, driven by an increase in harvested area to approximately 262,000 hectares. The sector remains one of the three most efficient sugar producers globally and continues to advance sustainability initiatives, while refined sugar now accounts for approximately 70 percent of total exports. Domestic consumption is projected to remain stable at about 40 percent of total production, with exports reaching an estimated 1.685 million metric tons and serving a wide range of international markets. Building on a record year in calendar year (CY) 2025, U.S. corn exports to the Republic of Korea (ROK) will remain strong into MY 2026/27 due to competitive prices. As of March 2026, U.S. corn purchase commitments are running at double last year’s level. Per capita rice consumption continues to decline in favor of wheat-based foods and meat, putting downward pressure on production. The ROK resumed U.S. table rice auctions on March 6, 2026, following a suspension that began in November 2023. However, under the current weekly sales plan, total U.S. table rice sales will not keep pace with accumulating import volumes. The ROK’s instant noodle (ramyeon) exports -- made from imported U.S. and Australian wheat -- posted another record year in CY 2025 with over $1.5 billion in sales. The compound feed market remains mature and generally stable in volume, but disease-driven reductions in poultry and swine herds are adding volatility in 2026. On April 6, the Government of Vietnam (GVN) issued Resolution 15, extending the suspension of Decree 46, which caused widespread disruption of trade in food and agricultural products due to its abrupt implementation, until the amended Food Safety Law (FSL) takes effect. During the suspension period, Decree 15 on Food Safety, issued in 2018, remains in force. This report supplements GAIN report VM2026-0005 by providing an update on recent developments and outlining the timeline for amending the FSL. Vietnam has confirmed its government for the 2026 - 2031 term following the April 2026 National Assembly session, marking the implementation phase of the 14th National Party Congress agenda. The leadership transition reflects continuity under the Communist Party of Vietnam alongside a greater concentration of authority at the top level. A streamlined Government structure has been adopted, with 14 ministries and 3 ministerial-level agencies, reduced from 18 ministries and 4 agencies in the previous term due to the merger and reorganization of certain ministries. Within this transition, the appointment of Mr. Tr?nh Vi?t Hùng as Minister of Agriculture and Environment signals continuity in policy direction with a focus on sustainability and integrated coordination across agriculture and environmental priorities. The following GAIN reports were released on April 13, 2026. _______
Qingdao, a city with a population of over 10 million, is a major coastal city in Shandong Province and one of China’s most important port cities. The city serves as a leading hub for seafood processing, brewing, tree nut processing, wood processing, textile manufacturing, and food distribution. With a well-developed cold-chain logistics network, strong processing capabilities, and deep integration into global trade, Qingdao presents significant opportunities for U.S. agricultural exports. Key product prospects include seafood, beef, brewing ingredients, bakery ingredients, specialty coffee, and fresh fruits. With GDP growth of approximately 5.4 percent and total economic output of roughly $244.6 billion, Qingdao’s per capita disposal income exceeds the national average. Qingdao’s increasing affluent consumers and vibrant tourism sector provide strong entry points for premium U.S. agricultural products. Sugar production in El Salvador is forecast to reach 719,000 metric tons (MT) in marketing year (MY) 2026/27, with MY 2025/26 estimates revised down to 705,000 MT. This growth is largely driven by ongoing investments in irrigation infrastructure, the modernization of refining equipment, and the adoption of improved sugarcane seed varieties. Sugar exports are projected to rise by 2 percent in MY 2026/27, driven by heightened demand from China and Taiwan. Favorable international prices have also helped mitigate some of the financial pressure from high input costs in sugar production. In response to persistent inflation concerns, the Government of El Salvador has extended the zero percent import duty on sugar until March 2034. The European Union (EU) follows a complex, rolling system of review for active ingredients and Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) in food. For agricultural inputs, U.S. farmers must know early in the process of review to prevent or mitigate the loss of, and/or access to, chemical inputs. The information in this document provides interested stakeholders with advance notice of those active ingredients under review, highlighting those substances undergoing new restrictions or may not be renewed. This is a quarterly update from March 2026. Rice production in Guatemala continues to face constraints, as unfavorable weather conditions and limited access to improved seed varieties hinder yield growth. As a result, imports are expected to remain stable to meet domestic consumption demand, with the United States maintaining its position as the primary supplier. White corn production is projected to increase modestly to support human consumption needs. Guatemala does not produce yellow corn for feed and remains heavily reliant on imports. These imports are expanding at a pace that exceeds feed demand, leading to stock accumulation as a buffer against trade disruptions associated with port inefficiencies. The bulk expansion of Port Quetzal is anticipated to be completed by 2028. Wheat consumption in Haiti for marketing year (MY) 2026/2027 (July 2026/June 2027) is forecast up at 550,000 metric tons (MT), driven by population growth. Rice imports in MY 2026/2027 are forecast to reach 540,000 MT due to strong local demand and a decline in rice production. Corn production for MY 2026/2027 is projected down to 255,000 MT, spurred by continued land abandonment in key producing areas and irregular precipitation patterns. Corn consumption is also expected to decline in line with lower domestic availability. Sugar production and exports in Honduras are projected to increase in MY 2026/27, supported by higher yields, expanded harvested area, and continued investment in the sector. Productivity gains in MY 2025/26 were driven by modernization efforts, improved irrigation systems, precision agriculture, and climate recovery initiatives. For MY 2026/27, production of both sugar cane and centrifugal sugar is forecast to rise by 2 percent, consistent with MY 2025/26 levels, while exports are expected to grow by 3 percent. Total harvested area is estimated at 57,000 hectares, yielding approximately 5.7 million of sugarcane, with centrifugal sugar exports projected at 212,460 metric tons. Cotton imports for marketing year (MY) 2025/26 are estimated at 7.6 million bales based on partial-year import statistics and recent high demand for cotton yarn from China. Post forecasts that MY 2026/27 cotton imports will grow 10 percent to 8.4 million bales. MY 2025/26 stocks are revised lower to 913,000 bales due to strong yarn demand. The following GAIN reports were released on April 10, 2026. _______ Bulgaria’s fish and seafood imports continued to grow in 2025, reaching a record $196.7 million, up 12.3 percent from 2024. Over the past decade, imports have nearly doubled, driven by rising demand, a broader product mix, and limited domestic catch for several popular species. Imports remained concentrated among European Union (EU) suppliers, although Bulgaria also sourced notable volumes from Norway, the Faroe Islands, Türkiye, and People’s Republic of China (PRC). The foodservice and modern retail sectors supported demand for both traditional and higher-value imported species. Despite this growth, household fish consumption remains well below the EU average, leaving room for further market development and opportunities for U.S. exporters. This report lists major export certificates required by the government of China to export food and agricultural products to China. U.S. exporters are advised to monitor the USDA Global Agricultural Information Network (GAIN) system for updates and see the China's Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Report for more information on import requirements. Marketing Year (MY) 2026/27 European Union oilseed production is forecast to increase, mainly due to high rapeseed and sunflower production. This follows very high oilseed production in MY 2025/26, especially for rapeseed. MY 2026/27 oilseed imports are expected to decrease due to higher availability of sunflower and rapeseed. Rapeseed and sunflower meal are expected to increase in feed mixtures, while less soybean and palm kernel meal are used due to anticipated EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) compliance costs. Higher oil production is expected in MY 2026/27 due to an increase in overall crush, facilitating higher exports. Bite size local news, Post reports and activity summaries wrapped by ATO Hong Kong. In this issue: U.S. leather and fur leave an impression at Hong Kong fashion and materials trade shows; Cotton mills and brands converge at CCI’s Cotton USA Outlook; Alaskan seafood draws young consumers; American Hardwood Export Council honored at AIA awards; Hong Kong takes top spots in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants awards; Michelin honors 98 restaurants in Hong Kong and Macau; and Hong Kong hits 10 million visitors in first two months of 2026. Wheat production in Peru in MY 2026/2027 (July–June) is forecast at 220,000 metric tons (MT), while imports are expected to reach 2.24 MMT, up from 2.16 MMT in MY 2025, with Canada expected to maintain a dominant market share. Corn production in MY 2026/2027 (October–September) is projected at 1.75 MMT, while consumption is forecast at 6.3MMT, driven primarily by strong demand from the poultry sector. Corn imports are expected to increase three percent to 4.63 MMT, with Argentina supplying most imports. Rice production in MY 2026/2027 (April–March) is forecast at 2.7 MMT, a four percent increase from the previous year, while rice imports are expected to remain stable at 180,000 MT. The Swedish food retail market is estimated at $45 billion and is dominated by ICA, Axfood, and Coop, together controlling 90 percent of the sales. Most purchases take place at physical stores and online sales remain small at around four percent but growing. Several Swedish hypermarkets have an “USA” section or “Amerikanskt” section, offering a selection of U.S. products. Several non-food stores also offer specialty packaged foodstuffs, including confectionery and snack products from the United States. The alcohol monopoly Systembolaget offers a good selection of distilled spirits, wines, and craft beer from the United States. Sweden has one of the highest GDPs per capita in Europe, but price still matters, especially for everyday groceries. At the same time, consumers continue to buy premium and indulgent items, balancing value-consciousness with a willingness to pay for quality. The United Kingdom (UK) is a significant market for biofuels, for road fuel use of bioethanol, biodiesel and renewable diesel, as well as other uses as the Sustainable Aviation Fuel expands. The UK has maintained a strong connection to the European Union (EU) market and some regulatory similarities since Brexit. UK demand is primarily driven by the government’s decarbonization policy, namely the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) and evolving sustainability standards. The UK remains a significant importer of biofuels, particularly from China, the United States, Southeast Asia, and Brazil. However, these trends may be impacted by UK trade policies and decarbonization goals in the coming years. While the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate is gradually reducing the role of biofuels in the road transport sector, 2025 marks a turning point as advanced fuels—particularly SAF and renewable diesel—see accelerated growth in aviation and heavy-duty transport, offsetting declines in traditional road fuel use. FAS Caracas forecasts a 33 percent increase in Venezuelan corn production in market year (MY) 2026/2027 and an increase in corn consumption to 3 million metric tons. Milled rice production for MY 2026/2027 is projected to slightly decrease to 441,000 MT and wheat imports are expected to increase by 10 percent to 1.5 million metric tons. The agricultural sector remains impacted by high inflation, a surge in fertilizer prices, and restrictive policies that increasingly mandate domestic procurements over imports. Overall Venezuelan agricultural imports in 2025 dropped 15 percent by value and five percent by volume but agricultural imports from the United States increased slightly, reaching $762 million. For more information, or for an archive of all FAS GAIN reports, please visit gain.fas.usda.gov/. Announcing the Awardees for the America First Trade Promotion ProgramWashington, D.C., April 16, 2026 – Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service announced additional support for American farmers and producers through the America First Trade Promotion Program to help expand export markets for U.S. food and agricultural products. Thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts, starting in fiscal year 2027, USDA will have an additional $285 million annually in supplemental funding that it will use to support flagship FAS market development programs like the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program. The AFTPP funding awarded today is a precursor to the funding provided under the Working Families Tax Cuts, providing important investment for USDA’s market development programs and building for successes to come. “USDA’s market development programs have a proven record of delivering for our farmers, ranchers and producers,” said Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke J. Lindberg. “Partnering with industry opens new doors for trade, strengthening our position in the global marketplace and advancing the Trump Administration’s priority of keeping American agriculture competitive, resilient and ready to meet growing global demand.” One of USDA’s top priorities is creating new and better market opportunities for producers. This includes strengthening U.S. agriculture’s presence in existing markets and opening new market opportunities by ensuring that high-quality U.S. agricultural and food products reach all corners of the world. AFTPP provides the funding necessary to capitalize on the negotiated agreements with trading partners through increased market opportunities to sell the bountiful and exceptional U.S. agricultural products produced by our millions of hardworking American farmers, ranchers and producers.
FAS will provide funding to 55 nonprofit organizations and cooperatives through AFTPP. As part of the USDA market development program portfolio, AFTPP is designed to help exporters leverage these market opportunities and ensure continuity of relationships and trust. It is a complement to USDA’s other export promotion programs and will be an important resource to our key stakeholders before the Working Families Tax Cuts funding becomes available.
The list of awardees for the AFTPP can be found at https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/america-first-trade-promotion-program/aftpp-fy-2026-funding-allocations. To learn more about AFTPP and other FAS programs, visit www.fas.usda.gov/programs. | 
