NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — The Tennessee Department of Agriculture has received more than $880,000 in federal funding to help expand international markets for the state’s hardwood industry, officials announced.
The funding comes through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Emerging Markets Program and will support outbound and inbound trade missions focused on India and Vietnam, according to the department.
Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt said the funding is intended to help Tennessee hardwood producers reach new international buyers as global demand for hardwood products grows.
Through two awards totaling more than $880,000, the department plans to promote Tennessee hardwood lumber, value-added wood products, and other forest products in overseas markets. The projects are designed to connect producers with buyers, identify emerging market trends, and support long-term export growth.
Planned activities include trade missions to India and Vietnam to assess market conditions and explore supply chain partnerships. The program also includes hosting international delegations in Tennessee to tour sawmills, manufacturing facilities, and forest operations.
