The USDA has released its second solicitation for trade barrier mitigation.  Primarily designed to offset lost business resulting from Chinese tariffs, USDA was authorized to spend $55 million on oranges from U.S. production areas.  The initial bid prior to Christmas resulted in a small purchase with limited participation by industry.

This solicitation seeks 1.16 million carton equivalents with just under 485,000 carton equivalents being sought in bags with the balance being 678,186-40lb cartons.  The fruit is destined for food banks across America with shippers bidding to their destination of choice.  USDA is looking for size 113s and larger.  The bid submission deadline is January 28^th with USDA acceptances announced by midnight, February 18^th.

At this time, fruit delivery is scheduled between April 1^st and June 26^th.

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