In the U.S., agriculture plays a significant role in our lives. In addition to being a source of food for Americans, agriculture is also important to us economically and socially.

The U.S. is the largest food-producing nation in the world. This huge industry allows us to enjoy one of the most abundant food production systems and the safest supply of food in the world. Our abundant food supply also makes the U.S. one of the largest suppliers of food for humanitarian programs in developing countries.

Agriculture generates approximately $190 billion in cash receipts a year, of which just over 50 percent are generated from livestock agriculture. Cash receipts from agriculture exports are approximately $49.1 billion, of which approximately 20 percent are from export of animals and animal products.