The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Nov. 24 announced its intent to purchase up to $30 million in fresh citrus from American farmers.
Under Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935, the USDA has the authority to purchase commodities from American farmers and producers and distribute the products to food banks and nutrition assistance programs across the country.
“These fresh fruits will reach those in need, boosting healthier options for Americans at food banks across the country, all while benefiting American farmers facing unfair actions from foreign competitors,” said Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.
USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) will purchase $15 million of oranges, $10 million of grapefruit and $5 million of mandarins.
Solicitations will be issued and will be available electronically through the Web-Based Supply Chain Management (WBSCM) system. A hard copy of the solicitation will not be available. Public WBSCM information is available without an account on the WBSCM Public Procurement Page. All future information regarding this acquisition, including solicitation amendments and award notices, will be published through WBSCM and on the Agricultural Marketing Service’s website.
The contract type is anticipated to be firm-fixed-price. Deliveries are expected to be to various locations in the United States on a freight on board destination basis.
The fruit acquired under this contract must be a product of the United States.
Matt Joyner, Florida Citrus Mutual executive vice president and chief executive officer, said the purchase “provides hope and stability as the industry continues to address the impacts of citrus greening and hurricanes. Not only will this purchase support the Florida citrus industry’s recovery, but it will also provide fresh fruit to communities in need this holiday season.”
Sources: USDA and Florida Citrus Mutual
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