The "FRIDGE Act of 2025" aims to boost U.S. agricultural exports by improving cold chain infrastructure and port facilities in developing countries through technical assistance and training programs.
Randy Feenstra
Representative
IA-4
The "FRIDGE Act of 2025" aims to bolster the export of U.S. agricultural products by improving infrastructure in developing foreign markets. It directs the Secretary to collaborate with trade organizations to provide assessments, training, and technical assistance, specifically targeting cold chain capacity and port improvements to prevent damage to U.S. agricultural commodities. The act authorizes $1,000,000 annually from 2026 to 2030 for these activities, with unused funds being reallocated to the existing program. This initiative seeks to reduce food loss, promote trade, and enhance nutrition by strengthening global supply chains.
FRIDGE Act Proposes $1M Annually to Fix Overseas Cold Chains, Boost US Farm Exports
The Fortifying Refrigeration Infrastructure and Developing Global Exports (FRIDGE) Act of 2025 sets its sights on a practical problem hindering American food exports: inadequate refrigeration and port facilities in developing nations. This bill proposes amending the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978 to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to fund technical assistance aimed at shoring up these crucial supply chain links. Specifically, it earmarks $1 million per year for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 for this purpose.
Beyond Promotion: Building Better Plumbing for Exports
For years, trade programs have focused on promoting U.S. agricultural products abroad. The FRIDGE Act acknowledges that promotion isn't enough if the goods spoil before they reach consumers. Billions in potential exports are lost annually simply because the 'cold chain' – the system of refrigerated storage and transport needed for fresh and frozen foods – is lacking or unreliable in many developing markets. This bill shifts focus slightly, dedicating funds specifically to fix these infrastructure gaps. It empowers the Secretary of Agriculture to partner with trade organizations to conduct assessments, provide training, and offer technical help to improve cold chain capacity and port infrastructure overseas, aiming directly at preventing spoilage of U.S. farm products.
The Million-Dollar Assist: What It Actually Does
The proposed $1 million annual funding (totaling $5 million over five years) is designated for these specific technical assistance activities. This isn't about building massive new facilities directly, but rather providing the know-how and planning support to help developing countries improve their own systems. Think assessments of current weaknesses, training for local workers on maintaining refrigeration standards, and technical guidance on upgrading ports to handle temperature-sensitive cargo efficiently. The goal, as stated in the bill (amending 7 USC 5623(c)), is to prevent damage or loss to U.S. agricultural commodities, ultimately opening up or expanding markets by ensuring American apples, meat, dairy, and other perishable goods can actually arrive in good condition. This targets a key bottleneck, aiming for less food waste globally and more reliable markets for U.S. producers.