USDA opens new trade offices in China and Philippines - Trade Notes …

AgExporter, April, 2004

FAS has opened new ATOs (Agricultural Trade Offices) in Manila, the Philippines, and Beijing, China. The opening of these offices is timely as agricultural trade between the United States and Asia is rapidly expanding. U.S. exports of agricultural products to China are forecast to reach $5.4 billion this fiscal year, compared with $3.5 billion in 2003 and $1.8 billion in 2002. China is the fourth largest export market for U.S. agricultural products and has recently become a strong market for U.S. soybeans. In addition to the new Beijing ATO, FAS operates ATOs in Shanghai and Guangzhou. The Philippines is also a growing and dynamic market that is very important for U.S. agriculture. With U.S. exports of agricultural, fish and forest products totaling $677 million in fiscal 2003, the Philippines ranks among the top 20 U.S. markets.

FAS has many agricultural affairs and trade offices covering countries around the world. Trade offices in key markets function as service centers for U.S. exporters and foreign buyers seeking market information. U.S. agricultural trade offices and attache offices provide foreign buyers with information on potential suppliers in the United States. They also assist U.S. exporters in launching products in markets with diverse food preferences, social customs and marketing systems.

The Beijing ATO is located at No. 1 Guang Hua Lu, Cahoyang District, Kerry Center 24F, Unit Number 2425, Beijing 100020, China. Tel.: (011-86-10) 8529-6418; Fax: (011-86-10) 8529-6692; E-mail: atospublic.sta.net.cn. The mailing address for the Beijing ATO is Agricultural Trade Office, U.S. Embassy, Beijing, China, PSC 461 Box 50, FPO AP 96521-0002.

The Manila ATO address is Agricultural Trade Office, 25th Floor, Ayala Life-FGU Center, 6811 Ayala Avenue, Makati City 1203, Philippines. Tel.: (011-632) 894-5381; Fax: (011-63-2) 812-5430; E-mail: agmanila@usda.gov. The mailing address for the Manila ATO is Agricultural Trade Office, Manila, Philippines, PSC 500, Box 31, FPO AP 96515-1000.