Hawaii Department of Agriculture – Market Development Branch
The Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) - Market Development Branch (MDB) plays a vital role in promoting and supporting the growth of Hawaii’s agricultural industry. Based in Honolulu, Hawaii, this government agency is dedicated to expanding local and international markets for Hawaiian agricultural products, ensuring economic sustainability and global competitiveness.
Agency Overview
The Market Development Branch (MDB) within the Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) focuses on initiatives that promote Hawaiian-grown and Hawaiian-made agricultural products. Through marketing programs, trade shows, certification initiatives, and business development support, the agency works to enhance the visibility and value of Hawaii’s agricultural products in domestic and international markets.
Core Responsibilities & Specialization
HDOA’s Market Development Branch specializes in economic development programs for Hawaii’s agricultural sector, supporting farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses through:
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Marketing & Promotion
- Expanding market access for Hawaii-grown products.
- Promoting local agriculture through branding initiatives like Hawaii Seal of Quality and Made in Hawai‘i with Aloha.
- Supporting export development and connecting businesses to international buyers.
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Trade & Business Development
- Organizing local and international trade missions.
- Facilitating participation in global food expos and agricultural trade shows such as Gulfood, SIAL, and FoodEx Japan.
- Developing strategic partnerships with wholesalers, retailers, and distribution networks.
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Certification & Branding Programs
- Hawaii Seal of Quality – A certification ensuring authentic, premium Hawaiian agricultural products.
- Made in Hawai‘i with Aloha – A program highlighting locally produced, high-quality agricultural goods.
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Financial & Technical Assistance
- Offering grants, subsidies, and support programs to assist farmers in business growth.
- Providing education and training resources on marketing, sustainability, and food safety.
Economic Impact & Market Reach
The Hawaii Department of Agriculture plays a crucial role in boosting the state's agricultural economy, ensuring that Hawaiian agricultural products reach global markets while strengthening local food sustainability.
- Annual Agricultural Output: Hawaii’s agriculture contributes approximately $400 million annually to the state’s economy.
- Global Market Reach: Hawaiian agricultural products are exported to over 20 countries, including Japan, South Korea, China, Canada, and the U.S. mainland.
- Local Farmer Support: Over 7,000 farms and agribusinesses in Hawaii benefit from HDOA’s market development programs.
Certification & Compliance
The Market Development Branch ensures that Hawaiian agricultural exports meet stringent international food safety and quality standards, including:
- USDA Organic Certification – Ensuring organic compliance for farms and food producers.
- HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) – Food safety management compliance for processed food exports.
- GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) – Industry standards for food and beverage manufacturing.
- Hawaii Seal of Quality Certification – Verifying authenticity and premium quality for Hawaiian agricultural goods.
Customer & Industry Testimonials
HDOA’s Market Development Branch has been instrumental in helping Hawaiian farmers and agribusinesses expand into new markets. Key industry testimonials include:
"The Hawaii Seal of Quality program has greatly increased the visibility of our coffee in international markets. Buyers now recognize Hawaiian-grown products as premium and authentic." – Hawaiian Coffee Exporter
"With the support of HDOA’s trade mission initiatives, our macadamia nut business has successfully entered the Japanese market, increasing sales by over 30%." – Macadamia Nut Producer
Key Achievements & Recognition
- Successful Export Expansion – Assisted local agricultural businesses in securing over $50 million in new export contracts in the past five years.
- Participation in Global Trade Exhibitions – Promoted Hawaiian products at leading international food expos, including FoodEx Japan, Natural Products Expo West, and SIAL Paris.
- Strategic Partnerships – Collaborated with wholesale distributors, retailers, and foodservice providers to boost Hawaiian agricultural sales worldwide.
- Support for Sustainability & Food Security – Implementing local farm-to-table initiatives and encouraging sustainable agricultural practices across Hawaii.
Conclusion
The Hawaii Department of Agriculture – Market Development Branch continues to be a driving force behind Hawaii’s agricultural economy, supporting farmers, producers, and agribusinesses in reaching global markets while maintaining local sustainability and food security. Through marketing, certification, and trade development programs, the agency remains a key partner for the growth and success of Hawaii’s agricultural sector.
