Booming US Ag exports - A growing share of American produce

May 23, 2024

By Farms.com

American agriculture is a powerhouse, and a significant portion of its production finds its way to markets worldwide. On average, over 20% of US agricultural output is exported each year, highlighting the importance of this international trade.

The good news is that this export market is expanding, particularly for non-manufactured agricultural products. These include essential commodities like grains, oilseeds, and fresh produce. Over the past decade, exports of these items have grown by an impressive 1.4% annually, compared to overall production.

For some products, exports are a major driver. Food grains, for instance, see a staggering 65% of their production value exported, while fruits and tree nuts reach 44%. This demonstrates the global demand for high-quality American agricultural products.

In contrast, the US exports a smaller share of manufactured agricultural goods, such as sweeteners, baked items, and dairy products. The export share of these products has actually declined slightly since 2012, suggesting that a larger portion is being consumed domestically.

This trend highlights the growing importance of US agriculture on the global stage. As the world's population continues to rise, the demand for high-quality food is only going to increase. American farmers are well-positioned to meet this challenge, and the export market offers a significant opportunity for continued growth.

Video: Veteran Farmers: A Legacy of Service in Rural America

Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who have selflessly protected our freedoms and values. And for some, the transition from military service to civilian life brings them back to the farm.

At Farm Bureau, we believe it’s important to not only celebrate veterans but also those who continue to make a difference in agriculture and their community. We've partnered with Farm Credit to establish the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence to shine a light on those who have continued to go above and beyond to serve their communities.

This year, we recognize retired Colonel Joe Ricker as the inaugural Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence winner. Joe served over 30 years in the Army before retiring from the Pentagon and completing tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Since leaving the Army, his commitment to excellence in farming and enriching the lives of veterans has blossomed in a myriad of ways in both his local community of Wilkinson, Indiana, and across the country. Joe grows apples and raises bees on his farm in Indiana. Joe founded “Veterans IN Farming,” an organization, now with more than 1,100 members, dedicated to providing veterans in Indiana with the tools and training to succeed in agriculture.

The American Farm Bureau Federation is an independent, non-governmental, voluntary organization, comprised of and directed by farm and ranch families who engage in all types of food, fuel and fiber production.