Wine Institute Applauds Passage of Legislation Boosting Export Promotion Funding

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, and sent it to President Trump for his signature. The legislation includes a doubling of annual funds for key U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs, including the Market Access Program (MAP), in which Wine Institute has long been a leading participant and advocate.  

Wine Institute released the following statement from Robert P. Koch, president and CEO of Wine Institute, in response to Congress approving a significant increase in funding for programs that support U.S. wine exports and foreign market development. 

“We applaud Congress and the Trump administration for prioritizing agricultural exports at a time when the entire U.S. agricultural sector is facing mounting challenges. This funding is vital to help level the playing field for U.S. wine exporters who compete in global markets where foreign producers often benefit from more favorable trade terms.  

“These resources are especially critical now, as our industry faces unprecedented headwinds — including a ban on U.S. wine sales in Canada, our largest export market.

“Wine Institute has been advocating for this increased funding for years, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see that work pay off. This is meaningful progress for vintners, growers and the communities that depend on a strong global presence for U.S. wine.” 

H.R. 1 includes language that doubles the funding for USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service export promotion programs, increasing MAP and related funding from $285 million to $570 million annually. Wine Institute’s Wine Export Program leverages MAP funds to support the sale and promotion of California wines in more than 40 countries through robust marketing initiatives aimed at international trade, media and consumers. 

U.S. wine exports totaled more than $1.2 billion in 2024. With this increased federal investment, Wine Institute will continue to expand opportunities for California wine abroad and help ensure it remains a leading global agricultural export.  

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About Wine Institute 

Established in 1934, Wine Institute is the public policy advocacy group of more than 1,000 California wineries and affiliated businesses. Representing members responsible for 80% of U.S. wine production and 95% of wine exports, Wine Institute advocates for state, federal, and international public policy to enhance the environment for the responsible production, consumption, and enjoyment of wine.