The California Walnut Commission says it has secured USDA funding to support the expansion of market opportunities and the growing demand for California walnuts worldwide.
The USDA has awarded the commmission $3.6 million through the 2025 Market Access Program. In addition, the commission has received $14 million in Regional Agriculture Promotion Program funds, to be used over the next five years.
The combined funds will play a crucial role in its efforts to develop and enhance market opportunities for California walnuts in key international markets, according to a news release. The organization said MAP funding will enable ongoing strategic marketing initiatives and promotional activities aimed at increasing availability and consumer desire for California walnuts, while RAPP funding will further support long-term market development and trade missions, fostering sustainable growth and expanding the reach of California walnuts to new and emerging markets.
The commission said it will focus on markets in Europe, Asia and the Middle East where there is growing demand for healthy and nutritious food products, and through collaboration with international partners, it aims to strengthen its market position and increase the visibility of California walnuts.
“We are thrilled to receive this substantial support from the USDA,” said commission CEO Robert Verloop. “These funds will significantly enhance our ability to promote California walnuts on a global scale, ensuring that consumers around the world can enjoy the high quality and nutritional benefits of our product. We are committed to leveraging this funding to drive demand, open new markets, and support the economic growth of our industry.”
