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.
“Farmers for Free Trade” warns that disaster is brewing as President Trump’s trade policy is causing farm input costs to rise even more.
October 22, 2025 12:07 PM
·
NCBA CEO Colin Woodall says more conversations need to occur with stakeholders present surrounding President Trump’s proposal to lower consumer beef prices with Argentinian imports.
October 22, 2025 11:53 AM
·
October 21, 2025 06:18 PM
·
Corn and wheat inspections outpaced last year, but soybean movement remains seasonally active yet behind, keeping basis and freight dynamics in focus by corridor.
October 21, 2025 04:00 PM
·
While artificial intelligence, or AI, is reshaping both jobs and messaging in agriculture, CoBank data suggests human expertise still matters.
October 21, 2025 02:29 PM
·
We highlight an Iowa FFA student who is harnessing the power of AI technology to assess stress in agriculture-related careers.
October 21, 2025 12:53 PM
·
API said it stands ready to work with Congress to develop a balanced approach to E15 legislation that promotes fuel choice, supports investment certainty, and contributes to a stable and fair marketplace for American consumers.
October 21, 2025 12:39 PM
·
Lawmakers are pressing for answers on how Washington’s “managed trade” approach — keeping leverage through long-term tariffs — will affect farmers, global markets, and future export opportunities.
October 21, 2025 12:17 PM
·
In the meantime, Senate Majority Leader John Thune is asking that farmers be allowed to use marketing assistance loans to help stay afloat.
October 21, 2025 11:57 AM
·
