California Walnut Commission secures USDA funding to expand global market opportunities

The California Walnut Commission (CWC) secured over $3.6 million in US Department of Agriculture funding to expand market access and grow demand for the state's walnuts worldwide.

The grant was awarded through the 2026 Market Access Program (MAP) and was announced on February 11, 202,6 by the USDA. It adds to $14 million in Regional Agriculture Promotion Program (RAPP) funds to be used through September 2030 to develop new export markets.

These combined funds will play a crucial role in the CWC's efforts to develop and enhance market opportunities for the crop in key international markets. 

“Over two-thirds of our walnuts are exported, making international sales an important source of value for our industry,” said Robert Verloop, CEO of the California Walnut Commission. “The continued investment from USDA in our industry strengthens our capacity to develop a preference for and expand use of California walnuts in key markets worldwide.”

Bringing California walnuts worldwide

The CWC thanks USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, Under Secretary Luke Lindberg, and the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service staff for their leadership in funding export development programs such as MAP and the new America First Trade Promotion Program. These dollars allow American farmers and ranchers–including walnut growers–to increase exports, diversify demand, and maintain competitiveness on a global scale. 

The CWC remains dedicated to supporting the state's walnut growers and handlers by creating new opportunities for growth and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry.

With support from USDA's MAP and RAPP funds, the CWC is well-positioned to achieve its goals and continue promoting California walnuts as a premium product in the global marketplace.

*All images are referential. 

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