Reforming Labor, Trade, and Health Policies: A Bold Step Toward a Resilient Fresh Produce and Floral Future

On April 11, 2025, the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) launched an ambitious Public Policy Agenda aimed at modernizing the nation’s fresh produce and floral sectors.

Announced in Washington, the strategic roadmap intends to secure a dependable, year-round supply of diverse, affordable, and safe fruits, vegetables, and floral products by addressing critical issues ranging from workforce challenges to innovative technological advancements.

The agenda outlines a comprehensive set of priorities designed to safeguard public health, promote sustainable practices, and solidify the economic foundation of both local and international communities.

At the heart of the new policy framework is a commitment to reforming labor programs that are essential to sustaining the industry’s workforce.

IFPA is actively pushing for common-sense reforms to modernize the H-2A and H-2B visa programs, which will help ensure a legal, reliable, and affordable labor pool for growers, shippers, and distributors.

This move is seen as pivotal in maintaining the efficiency of the supply chain while simultaneously protecting the livelihoods of workers who are integral to the fresh produce and floral sectors.

In addition to labor reforms, the agenda emphasizes the need for fair and scientifically driven trade policies.

IFPA is advocating for measures that counter broad tariffs and non-tariff barriers policies that have previously disrupted supply chains and led to higher consumer prices.

The association’s call for trade policies rooted in fairness aims to create a more stable economic environment for both domestic producers and consumers, fostering a competitive market that benefits all stakeholders.

These initiatives are designed to balance market dynamics with the urgency of delivering fresh produce consistently and affordably.

The roadmap also features robust initiatives to boost public health and nutritional outcomes.

By channeling increased funding into nutrition programs and integrating produce prescriptions into the U.S. healthcare system, IFPA intends to drive greater consumption of fruits and vegetables.

These measures not only aim to improve individual nutrition and overall public health but also serve as a strategic economic lever to stimulate the industry.

This commitment to intertwining health benefits with economic incentives is expected to yield long-term societal benefits, making the fresh produce and floral sectors even more indispensable.

Technological innovation and environmental stewardship are central pillars of the agenda as well.

IFPA supports significant investment in crop protection technologies, biotechnology, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, along with automation solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability.

The policy framework outlines plans for updating regulatory standards to support these advances, ensuring that growers have access to the best tools available to maintain robust, sustainable production systems.

Moreover, by promoting initiatives focused on regenerative agriculture and climate resilience, the agenda offers a dual benefit: preserving the natural environment while securing grower profitability amidst evolving climate challenges.

Equally integral to this policy agenda is the emphasis on strengthening food safety and supply chain infrastructure.

The IFPA is advocating for a risk-based food safety system that increases transparency and accountability in the operations and funding of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

This approach is designed to bolster consumer confidence by ensuring that food safety measures are both effective and clear.

Alongside food safety, the agenda calls for significant investments in infrastructure enhancements ranging from prioritizing port operations to reforming packaging regulations to ensure that perishable products can be transported and delivered without disruption.

The comprehensive policy agenda also addresses tax reforms intended to bolster family farms and stimulate industry-wide innovation.

Proposals such as estate tax relief, investment credits, and the recognition of fresh produce and floral products as allowable expenses under health-focused savings accounts are designed to ease financial pressures and incentivize advancements throughout the sector.

IFPA is at the forefront of advocating for a modern U.S. farm bill that reflects the critical economic and nutritional contributions of the industry while rectifying long-standing inequities in federal agricultural programs.

“Fresh produce and floral are essential not only to nutrition and well-being of individuals but to the economic vitality of communities around the world. This agenda reflects the voices and values of our members and lays out a policy framework that champions workforce reform, international trade, consumption incentives, research and innovation, and resilient supply chains.”

Rebeckah Adcock, IFPA Vice President of Government Relations

Her statement encapsulates the spirit of the initiative, one that is designed to enhance industry growth while simultaneously addressing the critical needs of consumers and communities alike.

The IFPA’s new Public Policy Agenda offers a transformative blueprint intended to nurture a thriving, resilient industry that is capable of meeting today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities.