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.
Chris McGovern from Connected Nation joined us Tuesday to break down the findings and discuss their implications for rural America.
September 30, 2025 01:12 PM
·
Gov. Gavin Newsom has until October 12 to sign a bill passed by the California state legislature allowing E15 sales.
September 30, 2025 12:59 PM
·
USDA and EPA officials aim to maintain America’s robust food supply while ensuring farmers have access to key resources and crop protection tools.
September 30, 2025 12:13 PM
·
The campaign is about more than just a digital push; NPB leaders hope it will become a rallying point for the entire industry.
September 30, 2025 11:55 AM
·
The Senate failed to pass a continuing resolution that had been approved by the House the previous week. They could take it up again today, but it would take seven democrats to end the stalemate.
September 30, 2025 11:26 AM
·
Livestock and government payments provide a boost, but crop receipts and rising expenses keep pressure on margins. Strong financial planning remains key in a volatile environment.
September 30, 2025 10:45 AM
·
The USDA is working with 14 different states, including Georgia, to develop and implement block grants to address the unique disaster recovery needs for each state.
September 30, 2025 10:25 AM
·
The total value of the U.S. potato crop was $4.60 billion in 2024, representing an 8% decrease from the previous year.
September 29, 2025 06:00 PM
·
We caught up with Karen Braun, Chief Market Analyst at Zaner Ag Hedge, at the Women in Agribusiness to discuss the data behind commodity trading.
September 29, 2025 03:30 PM
·
