The Pet Food Institute (PFI) applauds Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.) and Tracey Mann (R-Kan.), along with cosponsors Jim Costa (D-Calif.), Kim Schrier (D-Wash.), Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), Brad Finstad (R-Minn.), and Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), for reintroducing the Agriculture Export Promotion Act of 2025.
Previously called the Expanding Agricultural Exports Act and first introduced in February 2023, this legislation would double funding for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) Program.
Since 1993, PFI has engaged in export promotion through MAP, which supports global promotion of U.S. agricultural goods. PFI has used the program to promote U.S. pet food in key foreign markets, aiding in the export of $2.4 billion in U.S. pet food in 2023, with products shipped to over 90 countries. As a cooperator in MAP, PFI uses USDA grant funds to engage in marketing activities across 18 countries to promote the safety and quality of U.S. pet food.
“For PFI’s members, who make the vast majority of dog and cat food and treats in the U.S., boosting exports of pet food and treats is critical to ensuring continued market growth. This legislation would benefit U.S. pet food makers by supporting them in maintaining and expanding their global presence,” said PFI’s president and CEO, Dana Brooks. “As pets continue to be seen as valued members of families, and pet owners seek to provide their pets with complete and balanced commercial pet food, significant opportunities continue to grow in international markets.”
PFI’s Market Access Program aims to boost U.S. pet food and treat exports through marketing and promotions, improving local veterinarians’ knowledge in pet nutrition and partnering with rescue groups to enhance animal welfare. The work done by PFI’s the in-country representatives is vital to understanding consumer attitudes and habits in overseas markets, which enables PFI to provide the American pet food industry with valuable market insights to expand exports.