The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) are actively seeking applications from individuals with expertise in U.S. agriculture and experience in international trade to serve on agricultural trade advisory committees. These committees play a crucial role in providing advice and recommendations on various trade policy matters, including the implementation and enforcement of existing U.S. trade agreements and the negotiation of new agreements.
Agricultural policy advisory committee
The Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee (ATACs) is responsible for advising the administration on the practical aspects of trade agreements as well as the enforcement of existing agreements. Members of this committee help shape agricultural trade policies and provide valuable insights on the impact of these policies on U.S. farmers, ranchers, and businesses. The committee consists of representatives from a diverse range of agricultural sectors and groups.
The Agricultural Technical Advisory Committees are comprised of six committees that focus on specific agricultural commodity sectors. These committees provide technical advice and recommendations on international trade issues affecting the respective sectors. The committees are as follows:
- Animals and animal products
- Fruits and vegetables
- Grains, feed, oilseeds and planting seeds
- Processed foods
- Sweeteners and sweetener products
- Tobacco, cotton, peanuts and hemp
The ATACs serve as a vital link between the USDA, USTR, and the agricultural industry, ensuring that trade policies and agreements are aligned with the interests and needs of specific commodity sectors.
To be considered for committee membership, applicants must demonstrate expertise in U.S. agriculture and possess relevant experience in international trade. The application process is open to all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, familial status, parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or gender identity.
Applicants should submit their applications by 5 p.m. ET on January 31, 2024. Instructions for submitting applications can be found on the USDA's website.
Committee membership and responsibilities
Selected committee members will serve four-year terms and represent a cross-section of U.S. food and agricultural stakeholders. They must be U.S. citizens, qualify for security clearance, and be willing to serve without compensation for their time, travel, or expenses. Committee members typically participate in frequent video or teleconference calls and attend biannual meetings in Washington, D.C.
In line with the administration's commitment to improving equity and representation across the Federal Government, USDA and USTR aim to ensure that the advisory committees are broadly representative of agricultural sectors and groups with expertise and experience in agricultural trade and policy issues. This initiative seeks to foster a diverse and inclusive environment where multiple perspectives and voices are heard.
