What's Happening?
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the opening of registration for its 102nd Agricultural Outlook Forum, scheduled to take place on February 19-20, 2026, at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott. The event will also be available
via livestream. This annual forum, the oldest and largest of its kind organized by the USDA, will feature a presentation on the 2026 outlook for the U.S. agricultural economy and trade by USDA Chief Economist Justin Benavidez. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins will deliver the keynote address. A plenary panel will discuss 'Agricultural Trade Under Trump’s Trade Agenda,' and the program will include 22 breakout sessions covering a wide range of issues. More than 80 experts from government, industry, and academia will provide insights on topics such as commodity and food price forecasts, farm income, U.S. and global agricultural trade, the future of biofuels, and AI applications in agriculture.
Why It's Important?
The Agricultural Outlook Forum serves as a critical platform for stakeholders in the agricultural sector to gain insights into current and future trends affecting the industry. With the inclusion of discussions on trade policies under President Trump's agenda, the forum will address significant policy shifts that could impact U.S. agricultural exports and imports. The event's focus on innovation, such as AI applications in agriculture, highlights the sector's ongoing adaptation to technological advancements. This forum provides an opportunity for farmers, policymakers, and industry leaders to align on strategies that could enhance productivity and sustainability in agriculture, potentially influencing policy decisions and market strategies.
What's Next?
As the forum approaches, stakeholders in the agricultural sector will likely prepare to engage with the insights and forecasts presented. The discussions on trade policies and technological innovations could lead to new collaborations and policy recommendations. Participants may anticipate actionable strategies to address challenges such as market volatility and climate impacts on agriculture. The outcomes of the forum could influence future USDA policies and initiatives, as well as inform the strategic planning of agricultural businesses and organizations.
