On November 10, Agriculture Secretary Glickman announced a pilot program on export marketing for small-scale and minority producers, cooperative members, processors and others in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. Recognizing that limited local marketing outlets can threaten the economic survival of small businesses, the program will prepare about 30 participants to be trainers by teaching them the basics of international marketing, and helping them identify, research, and take advantage of potential export opportunities. The 2-year program is slated to begin in the spring of 2000. Increasingly, farmers are adding value through techniques such as drying, canning, juicing, combining ingredients, handcrafting as well as unique packaging and creative marketing to find a niche in today's market. The article points out how world agricultural trade is rapidly shifting from basic commodities to value-added products tailored to meet specific consumer needs.
Success stories range from blueberries and goat cheese to chili and taro patties.
USDA's Small Farm Digest , Fall 1999. Although the following reports may not deal specifically with organics, they may contain useful information to U.S. producers and exporters of organic products. Retail food sector reports include a market summary, road map for market entry, profile of the competition, best product prospects for U.S. exporters, and contact information. Exporter guides contain practical information on how to get your product to the target market. Many of these reports highlight growth in disposable income and increasing interest in health, dietetic, and organic products.