WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — The Food for Peace program is providing humanitarian assistance while also creating potential long-term marketing opportunities for U.S. wheat producers.
A wheat industry representative says the program has helped strengthen relationships with countries that have become consistent buyers of U.S. wheat, including the Philippines and South Korea.
The initiative can also introduce U.S. wheat to new potential customers, creating relationships that may continue even after food aid programs end.
“It is an opportunity to also build relationships. It’s some of that diplomacy that comes into play that serves us long term as well.”
The program also gives producers an opportunity to showcase wheat grown in the United States, including the Pacific Northwest.
Earlier this year, USDA awarded 20,000 metric tons of wheat for emergency feeding programs, highlighting the role food aid can play in both global assistance and U.S. agricultural trade.
