Exhibiting at Asia Fruit Logistica 2025

The U.S. Apple Export Council (USAEC) is a national trade association dedicated to promoting the export of fresh U.S.-grown apples to international markets. Based in Sacramento, California, USAEC operates as a not-for-profit entity, representing key apple-producing states and collaborating with federal trade agencies to expand the global reach of premium American apples.

Organization Overview

USAEC was established to support American apple growers, packers, and shippers by facilitating export market development, overcoming trade barriers, and enhancing global demand. The council represents the interests of apple industries in five core states:

• California
• Michigan
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Virginia

These states together contribute significantly to the U.S.’s annual apple output and are renowned for producing high-quality apples in a variety of cultivars suited for international tastes.

Mission and Objectives

• Promote U.S. apples in international markets through trade and consumer education campaigns
• Assist U.S. exporters with access to key markets by addressing phytosanitary and logistical challenges
• Strengthen the competitiveness of U.S. apple growers through technical support and market intelligence
• Partner with USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) for Market Access Program (MAP) funding

Activities and Programs

1. International Market Promotion

• Conducts in-store retail promotions, sampling campaigns, and trade shows in key export markets
• Customizes marketing strategies by region to highlight U.S. apple varieties and quality attributes
• Markets supported include:
  • Mexico: Largest importer of U.S. apples
  • India, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, Central America, Middle East: Growth markets

2. Exporter Support

• Provides country-specific market intelligence and trade leads
• Coordinates with USDA and APHIS to resolve phytosanitary and customs-related issues
• Offers export guides, MRL (maximum residue limit) data, and packaging requirements by country

3. Trade Advocacy

• Works with USTR, USDA, and other agencies to ensure fair trade access and reduce tariff/non-tariff barriers
• Advocates for science-based sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) regulations

4. Market Research

• Analyzes trends in international apple consumption, pricing, and competitor analysis
• Tracks changes in consumer behavior and retail landscape in target markets

Market Presence and Impact

According to USDA Foreign Agricultural Service data:

• The U.S. exported over 47.2 million bushels of apples in 2023
• Top export destinations included:
  • Mexico: ~31% of total exports
  • India: significant growth post-tariff reduction
  • Vietnam, Taiwan, UAE, and Saudi Arabia
• U.S. apples are praised globally for crisp texture, flavor consistency, and strict safety compliance

The five USAEC member states contribute to nearly 40% of total U.S. apple production, ensuring diverse varietals such as Red Delicious, Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Cripps Pink are available for global markets.

Target Stakeholders

• International apple importers, retailers, and wholesalers
• Global distributors seeking premium, traceable, and food-safe fruit
• Foodservice buyers and institutional procurement agencies
• U.S. apple exporters seeking marketing and technical assistance

Capabilities

• Deep network of grower-packer-shippers across five major U.S. states
• Market promotion experience in 15+ export markets
• Collaborative campaigns with USDA FAS offices and foreign trade chambers
• Tools for exporters including promotional materials, export manuals, and quality certifications

Certifications and Standards

• U.S. apples adhere to:
  • USDA Grade Standards
  • GlobalG.A.P. and HACCP protocols (via grower-shippers)
  • Traceability and cold chain compliance for food safety
  • Residue compliance with international MRL requirements

USAEC also supports exporters in navigating phytosanitary protocols such as pre-shipment inspections and cold treatment requirements for specific markets.

Recognitions and Partnerships

• Official USDA Market Access Program (MAP) cooperator
• Member of the U.S. Agricultural Export Development Council (USAEDC)
• Strategic partnerships with state departments of agriculture and trade offices
• Collaborates with international fresh produce expos like Asia Fruit Logistica and WorldFood Moscow

Testimonials

Importers and retailers across Asia and the Middle East have credited USAEC's campaigns for:

• Increasing awareness of U.S. apple quality and safety
• Supporting seamless importer connections with certified U.S. suppliers
• Improving product turnover through in-store and digital marketing efforts

Achievements

• Instrumental in reopening and expanding U.S. apple access to high-tariff markets such as India and Vietnam
• Supported a 20% increase in exports from member states between 2021 and 2023
• Launched multilingual marketing materials and retail education tools in over 10 countries
• Played a pivotal role in expanding U.S. apple brand identity under the USA Apples label

The U.S. Apple Export Council continues to enhance the global competitiveness of American apples through sustained international marketing, stakeholder support, and policy advocacy—ensuring U.S.-grown apples reach more consumers across the globe each season.