WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — The Trump Administration is expanding export financing tools to strengthen overseas demand for U.S. agricultural products, giving foreign buyers more flexibility while supporting American farmers. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced new repayment options under its Export Credit Guarantee Program (GSM-102) to improve competitiveness in key growth markets.
Under the updated policy, USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service will offer an 18-month, lump-sum repayment option that allows approved foreign buyers to repay the full loan amount at the end of the term rather than through scheduled installments. The option will initially apply to buyers in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia — regions USDA views as critical for long-term export growth.
USDA officials say the change aligns GSM-102 with common private-sector financing practices, making U.S. products easier to purchase in markets where credit access can limit trade. The agency emphasized that the adjustment does not increase financial risk to the program while expanding its practical use.
Farm-Level Takeaway: More flexible export financing could strengthen demand in emerging markets and support higher U.S. agricultural exports.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
GSM-102 provides credit guarantees to U.S. banks and exporters financing foreign purchases of American food and agricultural products through approved foreign banks. While the program has long allowed repayment terms of up to 18 months, this marks the first time borrowers can choose a single end-of-term payment structure.
The announcement was made during an agribusiness trade mission to Indonesia, part of broader efforts to open new markets, reduce trade barriers, and expand access to U.S. farm goods abroad.
The federal government’s status is far from the only factor moving the markets on Friday. Two critical reports released today on producer inflation and the status of the U.S. cattle herd are also top of mind.
January 30, 2026 12:51 PM
·
The changing political climate in America is leading to a drop in migrant crossings near the U.S.-Mexico border, where ranchers like Dr. Mike Vickers say they witnessed horrors from death to child trafficking.
January 30, 2026 11:47 AM
·
Record milk output looks strong today, but shrinking replacement numbers mean future supply adjustments could be faster and more volatile.
January 30, 2026 11:44 AM
·
A rapidly intensifying winter storm is expected to develop into a bomb cyclone this weekend, affecting the Southeast, southern Virginia, and potentially parts of the mid‑Atlantic and New England.
January 30, 2026 10:52 AM
Often overlooked, cotton wholesalers act as stabilizers during market stress, translating fragmented retail demand into workable production programs for mills and manufacturers.
January 30, 2026 08:00 AM
·
January 30, 2026 06:00 AM
·
AFBF Economist Danny Munch shares a closer look at the dairy market and the forces impacting producers today.
January 29, 2026 02:52 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer helps producers navigate farm program payments and understand the key details farmers need to know.
January 29, 2026 01:25 PM
·
Todd Janzen with Janzen Schroeder Ag Law explains the updated ag data use agreement model and what it means for farmers and companies alike.
January 29, 2026 01:25 PM
·
