Global Food Marketer™
Educating & Enriching News of Global Food Markets
The Value of Diversifying Your Export Markets
In today’s fast-moving global food landscape, diversification is one of the most strategic decisions U.S. suppliers can make. Relying on a single export market exposes companies to shifting tariffs, evolving consumer preferences, geopolitical changes, and unexpected disruptions. Expanding into multiple regions builds resilience, opens new pathways for growth, and positions businesses to thrive long-term, even in unpredictable environments.
As demand for U.S. products continues to rise across key markets, now is an ideal time for suppliers to broaden their international reach. Food Export offers a full suite of programs designed to help companies
evaluate opportunities, meet qualified buyers, and build a stronger, more stable global portfolio, whether exporters are just getting started or ready to enter new markets.
WHY DIVERSIFY YOUR MARKETS?
A broader market mix offers several compelling advantages for U.S. exporters:
Reduced market risk – Greater resilience to policy shifts, logistics challenges, and changes in demand.
More customer access – New regions introduce new buyers, sectors, and sales channels.
Innovation and growth – Adapting for multiple markets fuels product development and operational agility.
Focused Trade Mission to Japan for Retail and Foodservice Tokyo, Japan, October 2025
The Value of Diversifying Your Export Markets (cont.)
Stronger competitive edge – Companies positioned in multiple regions stand out in a crowded global landscape.
Higher long-term ROI – Diversification supports revenue growth rather than dependence on one dominant market.
Together, these benefits make diversification one of the most reliable ways to strengthen and expand your company’s global impact.
Market Scan
Market Scan provides in-depth market research for a specific product.
• Store Check and Distribution Analysis: Offers the brand names, packages, sizes, regular retail prices, current price specials, and shelf space allotments for similar products.
• Competitive Product Shopping: First-hand information and samples of similar and competing products sold in the market.
• Import Opportunity Analysis: Import regulations and restrictions affecting the importation of your product into a specific market.
• Distributor Referrals: Importer feedback on package size, labeling, taste, appearance, price, and marketability.
• Target Importer List: Includes names, contact information and summary of importers’ profiles.
HOW TO DIVERSIFY: FOOD EXPORT PROGRAMS THAT SUPPORT MARKET EXPANSION
Food Export provides several export development programs tailored to help suppliers successfully enter and grow in new markets:
Buyers Missions
Meet face-to-face with pre-qualified international buyers all in one place. These events help suppliers build relationships, collect market feedback, and identify new sales opportunities.
Focused Trade Missions
Travel to global markets and meet directly with importers, distributors, foodservice buyers, and retailers. Focused Trade Missions deliver in-market insights and hands-on experience that support informed market entry decisions.
Product Showcases
Promote your products at major international trade shows without the full cost of exhibiting. Showcases generate leads, test interest, and help suppliers evaluate market fit quickly.
Market Builder
A powerful first step for companies evaluating new regions, Market Builder offers custom market intelligence and introductions through two components:
‣ Market Scan – In-depth research on product potential, category trends, regulatory needs, and competitive landscape.
‣ Rep Finder – Direct introductions to targeted importers who are actively interested in your company’s U.S. products.
Together, these services remove guesswork and provide a clearer pathway to smart market entry.
Rep Finder
Rep Finder provides the opportunity for direct meetings between your company and a select group of targeted importers.
• Distributor Referrals: Importer feedback on package size, labeling, taste, appearance, price and marketability.
• Target Importer List: Includes names, contact information and a brief summary of importers’ profiles.
• In-Market Assistance: A minimum of three one-on-one appointments (should the market allow) will be arranged with participating companies and targeted importers. An In-Market Representative (IMR) will assist in communication, interpretation, and moderation of meetings.
Food Export Food Show PLUS at Food Tech Summit in October 2025
Where the Opportunities Are Growing for U.S.
Products Several international regions are showing strong demand for U.S. products:
Southeast Asia – Rapid economic expansion, youthful consumers, and rising modern retail drive demand.
Middle East – With heavy reliance on imports and increasing demand for premium and convenient foods, the region remains a promising space for value-added products.
Taiwan – One of the world’s highest seafood consumption rates and a strong interest in specialty and value-added products.
Korea – A major importer of seafood and processed foods with strong recognition of reputable, high-quality U.S. brands.
These markets will remain a priority for suppliers aiming to diversify and strengthen their international presence.
Training Webinars
Stay informed with our insightful webinars for the latest market updates and trade strategies. Watch for announcements of upcoming webinars and browse our library of past webinars at www.foodexport.org
50% BACK ON EXPORT MARKETING? December 3, 2025
COMPLIANCE COUNTS: NAVIGATING FOOD EXPORT REGULATIONS 2026 January 7, 2026
FOOD EXPORT DOCUMENTATION AND PROCEDURES 2026 January 21,2026
FOOD EXPORT MARKET UPDATE: SOUTH AMERICA February 4, 2026
FOOD LABELING 101: REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNATIONAL MARKETS February 18, 2026
Food Export Product Showcase at Food Espacio in October 2025
POCAS INTERNATIONAL EXPANDS GLOBAL REACH WITH MULTI-MILLION-DOLLAR EXPORT GROWTH
This New Jersey food and beverage supplier used Food Export’s Food Show PLUS!™ service and Branded Program to enter new markets across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, resulting in $1.65 million in recent sales, three new distributorships, and projected export growth of more than $3.5 million.
OHIO SUPPLIER EXPANDS PET FOOD EXPORTS
THROUGH INTERNATIONAL TRADE
Global Development & Management (GDM) leveraged Food Export programs, including the Branded Program, Buyers Missions, and Focused Trade Missions to grow premium pet food exports across Asia and Europe, generating more than $13 million in sales, gain 300 new foreign buyer contacts, and enter a new export market.
Food Export YouTube Channel
Grow your export skills on your schedule. Explore Food Export’s YouTube channel for short, actionable videos that help U.S. suppliers build confidence, navigate international requirements, and make the most of Food Export programs. Program videos include:
• Product Showcase Overview
• Discover Food Show PLUS!™
• Virtual Consultations for U.S. Food Exporters
• Market Builder Overview
• Export Navigator Service
EXPORT
MARKET/COUNTRY OVERVIEWS
• U.S. Export Opportunities in Central America
• Saudi Arabia’s Demand for U.S. Food Products
• Export Opportunities in Canada
• The Growing Demand for U.S. Food Products in Mexico: A Buyer’s Insight
$3.7 billion in food and agricultural products imported from the U.S. in 2024
11th largest
U.S. export market for processed foods in 2024
$652.4 million in U.S. processed foods imported in 2024 18.8% of Taiwan’s population is 65 years or older
Prepared/Preserved Food Preparations
Prepared/Preserved
TOP PROCESSED FOODS EXPORTED TO TAIWAN IN 2024
Prepared/Preserved
Food Preparations and Ingredients
Processed/Prepared
Processed/ Prepared Dairy Products Processed Vegetables and Pulses
Prepared/Preserved
Prepared/Preserved
Discover more about the Taiwan market including overviews about the retail, foodservice, and foodprocessing sectors in our full Market Profile.
Prepared/Preserved
Processed/Prepared
South Korea
of Korea’s imported agricultural products were supplied by the U.S. in 2023
5th largest market for U.S. processed food exports
3rd most densely populated country in world
18th largest packaged food market in the world
Prepared/Preserved
Prepared/Preserved
Prepared/Preserved
Prepared/Preserved
Prepared/Preserved
TOP PROCESSED FOODS EXPORTED TO SOUTH KOREA IN 2024
Processed/Prepared
Processed/Prepared
Processed/Prepared Dairy Products Food Preparations and Ingredients
Prepared/Preserved Seafood
Prepared/Preserved
Processed/Prepared
Learn more about the South Korea market including overviews about the retail, foodservice, and food-processing sectors in our full Market Profile.
Navigator Corner
Question: How does our company become “export ready?”
Answer: Becoming “export ready” means your company has the knowledge, internal systems, and resources needed to sell your products successfully outside the United States. It does not require being an expert in exporting, but it does mean you’re prepared to meet the expectations of international buyers and global markets.
A CLEAR, SUPPLIER-FOCUSED WAY TO THINK ABOUT EXPORT READINESS
Key Indicators of Export Readiness
Your company is on the path to being export ready if you can answer yes to most of the following:
1. Product Preparedness
• Your product meets U.S. regulations and labeling requirements.
• Shelf life, packaging, and case configuration are suitable for shipping and distribution.
• You understand whether the product needs refrigeration, cold chain logistics, or special handling.
• You know if your product is already export-compliant or needs adjustments (labeling, ingredient disclosure, language requirements, etc.).
2. Company Commitment
• Leadership supports international growth and is willing to allocate time and resources.
• You have the internal capacity to respond promptly to international buyer inquiries.
• You are prepared to adjust products or packaging if required for a new market.
3. Pricing and Sales Strategy
• You understand the difference between domestic and export pricing (INCOTERMS, freight, tariffs, etc.).
• You have the ability to quote export-ready pricing or are willing to develop it.
4. Knowledge and Expectations
• You understand that exporting is a long-term strategy; results may take months, not weeks.
• You are prepared for follow-up, relationship building, and ongoing communication with buyers.
HOW FOOD EXPORT HELPS YOU BECOME EXPORT READY! You don’t need to tackle export readiness alone. Food Export offers free education and hands-on support designed for small and mid-sized U.S. suppliers:
• Export Essentials Online – step-by-step training for new exporters
• Export Navigator – one-on-one guidance tailored to your company
• Webinars – practical 60-minute sessions on logistics, compliance, market entry, labeling, and more
• Market Builder – research and importer introductions to support market expansion
• Buyers Missions & Focused Trade Missions – curated opportunities to meet international buyers
• Branded Program – cost-share funding for international marketing and promotions
Bottom Line
You are export ready when your company: has a product that can be shipped internationally, has internal support and resources devoted to exporting, and understands what to expect when developing buyers in new markets.
Food Export is here to help guide you through every step – whether you’re just starting or actively growing your export business.
Product Highlights
Processed Foods
Global demand for U.S. processed foods continues to rise as international consumers look for quality, safety, convenience, and trusted brands. Across both mature and emerging markets, processed foods are one of the most accessible and scalable export categories for U.S. suppliers, especially those pursuing market diversification. Retailers, importers, and foodservice buyers increasingly seek reliable, shelf-stable, and versatile products that can adapt to regional tastes.
A GLOBAL MARKET THAT VALUES RELIABILITY AND CONVENIENCE
International buyers consistently choose U.S. processed foods for their consistent quality, innovative formulations, and strong brand recognition. Growth is being driven by:
• Urbanization and rising incomes, especially in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America
• Modern retail expansion, leading to more shelf space for packaged foods
• Changing lifestyles, as households seek time-saving meal solutions
• Food safety perceptions, with U.S. products seen as trustworthy and high standard
• Increased demand for value-added products, from sauces to ready meals
As consumers continue to shift toward packaged, portable, and easy-to-prepare foods, U.S. suppliers have ideal opportunities to enter new regions.
PRODUCT OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN PROCESSED FOODS
Many sub-segments within this category are already performing well internationally and are positioned for further growth, especially when suppliers adapt formats, flavor profiles, or packaging to regional preferences. Key export-ready categories include:
• Sweet and savory snacks – chips, bars, mixes, puffed snacks, nuts
• Prepared and preserved meats – jerky, deli meats, canned proteins
• Condiments and sauces – marinades, table sauces, ethnic sauces, dips
• Frozen and shelf-stable meals – meal kits, portioned entrées, ready-to-heat foods
• Packaged vegetables and pulses – canned beans, frozen vegetables, prepared sides
• Breakfast items and grains – cereals, oatmeal blends, instant mixes
With continued growth in global retail sales and increased openness to new U.S. flavors, processed foods remain one of the strongest entry points for companies expanding into international markets.
Beverages, Natural Products, Pet Food and Functional Food
HIGH-INTEREST CATEGORIES DRIVEN BY WELLNESS, PREMIUMIZATION AND SPECIALTY DEMAND
As global consumers prioritize health, authenticity, and lifestyle-oriented products, several fast-growing categories stand out for U.S. exporters: beverages, natural/organic products, pet foods, and functional wellness foods. These segments align directly with global trends toward better-for-you offerings, sustainability, and premium convenience, areas where U.S. suppliers maintain strong innovation leadership.
A CONVERGENCE OF GLOBAL TRENDS
• Demand is expanding across these segments due to: Growing health and wellness awareness, especially among younger consumers
• Rising interest in premium, specialty, and artisanal products
• Pet humanization trends, accelerating purchases of specialized and functional pet foods
Growing interest in functional benefits such as protein, probiotics, adaptogens, and clean-label ingredients. Retail and e-commerce expansion that makes specialty products more widely accessible. Countries across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe continue to show strong appetite for U.S. beverages, natural products, and specialty wellness items.
PRODUCT OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN BEVERAGES AND NATURAL/FUNCTIONAL FOODS
U.S. suppliers exploring these categories can find traction and buyer interest with a wide range of offerings:
Beverages
• RTD (ready-to-drink) teas, coffees, juices and enhanced waters
• Sparkling beverages and botanical blends
• Functional drinks featuring electrolytes, probiotics, or adaptogens
Natural & Functional Products
• Organic pantry items and clean-label packaged foods
• Specialty grains, nut butters, natural sweeteners
• Functional snacks fortified with protein, collagen, or plant-based benefits
Pet Food
• Premium dry and wet foods
• Treats, toppers, and functional supplements
• Grain-free, limited-ingredient, and specialty diets
These segments represent some of the most dynamic areas of global food and beverage growth, making them strong opportunities for suppliers aiming to diversify into regions where premium, wellness, and specialty products continue to gain momentum
As consumer preferences evolve and international demand continues to grow, U.S. suppliers are well-positioned to succeed in global markets. Whether you are exploring your first export market or expanding into your next one, Food Export is here to provide the insights, connections, and tools that help turn opportunity into export success!
Events
Look for Food Export teams at these upcoming global events, where we connect with industry leaders and showcase international trade opportunities.
ERD Early Registration Deadline SRD Standard Registration Deadline
‣ Food Show PLUS! at Super Market Trade Show
Chiba, Japan | February 18-20, 2026 ERD December 12, 2025 - $250
‣ Food Show PLUS! at CHFA Now Vancouver Vancouver, Canada | February 21-22, 2026 ERD December 12, 2025 - $250
‣ Natural Products Buyers Mission at Natural Products Expo West 2026 Anaheim, CA | March 3-4, 2026 ERD December 19, 2025 - $175
‣ Focused Trade Mission to Vietnam for Wood Products at the HAWA Expo Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | March 3-6, 2026 ERD December 19, 2025 - $425
‣ Focused Trade Mission to Mexico for Cheese, Meat & Beverage Mexico City and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico | March 3-6, 2026 ERD December 19, 2025 - $425
‣ Seafood Buyers Mission at Seafood Expo North America Boston, Massachusetts | March 14, 2026 ERD December 19, 2025 - $175
‣ Pet Food Buyers Mission At Global Pet Expo – Orlando, FL | March 24, 2026 ERD January 9, 2026 - $175
‣ Focused Trade Mission to Chile for Retail and Food Service Santiago, Chile | April 15-16, 2026 ERD January 30, 2026 - $425
‣ Food Show PLUS! at Seafood Expo Global Barcelona, Spain | April 21-23, 2026 SRD March 5, 2026 - $2000
Global Food Marketer™
FOOD EXPORT ASSOCIATION OF THE MIDWEST USA® AND FOOD EXPORT USA®–NORTHEAST
We are non-profit organizations comprised of state agricultural promotion agencies that use federal, state, and industry resources to promote the export of Midwestern and Northeastern food and agricultural products.
Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast administer many services through Market Access Program (MAP) funding from the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the USDA.
Brendan Wilson
Chief Executive Officer/Executive Director
Michelle Rogowski
Chief Operating Officer/Deputy Director
Laura England
Chief Communications Officer/Deputy Director
Teresa Miller
Chief Program & Partnership Officer
Gina Donio
Marketing & Communications Manager
FOOD EXPORT ASSOCIATION OF THE MIDWEST (FOOD EXPORT–MIDWEST) 29 North Wacker Drive, Suite 1000 Chicago, IL 60606 USA tel: 312.334.9200 • www.foodexport.org
FOOD EXPORT USA–NORTHEAST (FOOD EXPORT–NORTHEAST) One Penn Center, 1617 JFK Blvd. , Suite 420 Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA tel: 215.829.9111 • www.foodexport.org
Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast administer many services through Market Access Program (MAP) funding from the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the USDA. Persons with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations or alternate means of communication of program information should contact us. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast prohibit discrimination in all their programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, familial/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. To file a program discrimination complaint, go to https:// www.ascr.usda.gov/filing-program-discrimination-complaint-usda-customer. Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast are
Food Export’s Buyer Group with Kelly Kim, Food Export’s International Marketing Event Coordinator, at the Food Ingredients Buyers Mission at SupplySide Global in Las Vegas in September 2025.