Applications Open for Experts in U.S. Agriculture and International Trade to Join Key Advisory Committees; Deadline Set for September 20, 2024
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Trade Representative’s office have opened the application process for new members to join their agricultural trade advisory committees. These committees play a crucial role in shaping U.S. trade policies related to agriculture, providing both policy and technical advice on a range of international trade issues.
The application period is open to individuals with significant expertise in U.S. agriculture and experience in international trade. Successful applicants will serve on one of two types of committees: the Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee (APAC) or one of the six Agricultural Technical Advisory Committees (ATACs). While the APAC focuses on broader trade policy and the enforcement of existing agreements, the ATACs offer specialized advice on trade issues affecting specific agricultural sectors, including animals and animal products, fruits and vegetables, grains and oilseeds, processed foods, sweeteners, and other commodities like tobacco and cotton.
Committee members are appointed for four-year terms and are expected to contribute their expertise without receiving compensation for their time, travel, or expenses. The committees meet regularly, often through video or teleconference calls, with in-person meetings in Washington, D.C., typically occurring twice a year. To be eligible, applicants must be U.S. citizens, capable of obtaining a security clearance, and committed to participating in the committee’s activities.
The initiative also supports the administration’s goal of enhancing equity and representation within federal advisory committees. The USDA and the Trade Representative’s office aim to ensure that the committees reflect a diverse cross-section of U.S. food and agricultural stakeholders.
Interested parties are encouraged to submit their applications online through the USDA’s official portal by 5 p.m. Eastern Time on September 20, 2024.
