ARLINGTON, VA. — The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) received a boost for its ongoing animal food market expansion efforts in Vietnam with a $242,600 award from the US Department of Agriculture’s Emerging Markets Program (EMP).

The EMP award, announced June 5, will promote exports by continuing to grow the business-to-business relationships that are vital to the success and progression of the US animal food industry, the AFIA said. US animal food exports to Vietnam increased 40% between 2023 and 2024, totaling $2.8 million, compared to $1.6 million when the AFIA first launched its market development programs in the country with the support of the USDA.

“We appreciate the continued support from the US Department of Agriculture through the Emerging Markets Program,” said Constance Cullman, president and chief executive officer of the AFIA. “This partnership enables us to expand opportunities for US animal food products in promising global markets, fostering long-term growth for our industry and reinforcing the value of American agriculture on the world stage.”

Through the EMP, the Foreign Agricultural Service of the USDA provides cost-share funding for technical assistance activities, such as feasibility studies, market research, sectorial assessments, orientation visits, specialized training and business workshops. 

The AFIA said its trade mission to Vietnam, set for Oct. 20 to 23, is one example of how it regularly accesses these USDA programs for its members. This trade mission will offer participants the chance to engage directly with Vietnam’s growing animal food industry by meeting buyers and touring facilities to better understand market potential and local needs, the AFIA said.

“Exports drive growth for American animal food manufacturers and that growth extends beyond individual companies,” Cullman said. “The animal food sector plays a vital role in supporting US jobs and strengthening our economy. We look forward to USDA’s continued support in expanding opportunities abroad and hope AFIA members will continue to leverage the valuable market access we have helped secure.”

Vietnam has long been one of AFIA’s targeted markets, especially in promoting US pet foods. Last year, the association hosted the inaugural Pet Health Month campaign, partnering with the Vietnamese Small Animal Veterinary Association to educate veterinarians and pet owners on the importance of proper pet nutrition and open the door for US pet food manufacturers. 

Read more news from associations and agencies in the pet food sector.