USDA Under Secretary Alexis Taylor to Lead Historic Native Nations Agribusiness Trade Mission to Canada

WASHINGTON, Feb. 21, 2024 – U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor will lead an historic agribusiness trade mission to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, from June 17-20, 2024. This USDA mission will be the first of its kind, specifically highlighting products made and produced by tribal agribusinesses. 

USDA is excited the trade mission will highlight the reinvigoration of historic agricultural trade networks amongst Native Nations across the United States and Canada. Participants will be tribal producers with the Made/Produced by American Indians official trademark certified by the Intertribal Agriculture Council and producers from the Native Hawaiian Community operating on Native Hawaiian Home Lands as recognized by the Department of the Interior.

“We couldn’t be more excited to host this trade mission with our partners and leaders from Tribal Nations and the Native Hawaiian Community,” said Under Secretary Taylor. “Tribal agribusinesses produce products that represent a unique and significant element of the American agricultural economy and culture. Showcasing products from Tribal and Native Hawaiian producers is long overdue, and the Canadian market could not be a better fit. This delegation shares a strong historical connection to their Tribal lands, trading networks and agricultural resources.”  

Participating agribusinesses will engage in business-to-business meetings with potential importers from across Canada. The delegation will also receive detailed market briefings from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service staff and local and regional industry experts, as well as join educational seminars focused on reaching export readiness. The event will include networking receptions, engagements with USDA leadership, retail promotions and visits, and cultural activities in Vancouver and around British Columbia.

Canada consistently ranks among our top markets for agricultural product exports, representing one of our most significant and reliable trading partners. Total U.S. agricultural and related product exports to Canada totaled $28.2 billion in 2023. The nation offers a modern and dynamic food retail sector with deep familiarity and appreciation of American products. Strong opportunities exist for exporters across many sectors, including but not limited to:

• Bakery goods, cereals, and pasta;
• Fresh fruits and vegetables;
• Meats – pork and pork products, beef and beef products;
• Dairy;
• Processed food and beverages;
• Seafood

The deadline to apply for the Canada trade mission is Friday, March 8. For delegation consideration, please complete the trade mission application.

Please feel free to direct any questions to trademissions@usda.gov.