US report highlights global barriers impacting dairy exports
U.S. dairy organizations have welcomed the government’s focus on global trade barriers affecting dairy exports in the 2026 National Trade Estimate report. The report highlights ongoing challenges faced by American dairy producers in international markets.
“Nearly one in every six pounds of milk produced in America is shipped to a customer overseas. When foreign markets are closed off by bogus restrictions, the pain is felt directly on farms across this country,” said Gregg Doud, president and CEO of NMPF.
“The administration’s work through reciprocal trade negotiations to knock down these barriers is exactly the kind of advocacy American dairy farmers need, and we are grateful to see it reflected in this report,” said Doud.
Industry leaders noted that a significant portion of U.S. milk production is exported, making global trade access essential for farmers. When foreign markets impose unnecessary restrictions, it directly impacts farm incomes and overall industry growth.
The report outlines several trade issues, including complex certification rules, unnecessary facility registration requirements, and limited market access in some countries. These barriers often slow down exports and create additional costs for dairy businesses.
Leaders from major dairy organizations expressed appreciation for efforts to address these challenges through trade negotiations. They emphasized that removing unjustified restrictions can help ensure fair competition and open new opportunities for American dairy products.
“The inclusion of dairy trade barriers in this report and the administration’s concrete action to address them through reciprocal trade negotiations sends a clear signal that the United States is serious about opening markets for American dairy exporters,” said Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC.
“Every unnecessary certification requirement dismantled, every unjustified facility registration eliminated, and every market access commitment secured through these agreements is a win for U.S. dairy,” said Harden.
“We thank the administration for confronting the barriers directly and we look forward to building on that progress,” said Harden.
The report also raised concerns about policies in certain regions that restrict the use of common food names. These practices can limit the ability of U.S. producers to market products such as cheese and other dairy items under familiar names.
“The EU’s common name confiscation campaign is one of the most cynical trade tactics in the world today, and we are grateful that this administration has made confronting it a priority,” said Jaime Castaneda, executive director of CCFN.
“By documenting the EU’s geographical indications agenda prominently in the NTE Report and pushing back against it in reciprocal trade negotiations, USTR is standing up for American producers of cheeses, wines, meats, and beers. We strongly encourage the administration to keep up the great work,” said Castaneda.
Officials stressed that addressing these issues is important not only for dairy exporters but also for farmers across the country. Improved access to global markets can support better prices, increased demand, and long-term industry sustainability.
The administration’s continued focus on trade negotiations and policy action is seen as a positive step toward strengthening the U.S. dairy sector. Industry groups remain hopeful that ongoing efforts will lead to reduced barriers and expanded export opportunities.
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