The APAC provides advice on overall agricultural trade policy objectives and positions prior to entering trade agreements, the operation of trade agreements and other trade matters.

The six ATACs focus on specific commodities, covering trade in:

  • animals and animal products;
  • fruits and vegetables;
  • grains, feed, oilseeds and planting seeds;
  • processed foods;
  • sweeteners and sweetener products; and
  • tobacco, cotton and peanuts.

The committees, usually composed of 35 members, represent a cross-section of the food and agriculture industry and must have knowledge of agriculture and trade matters. Committee members must be U.S. citizens, qualify for a security clearance and serve without compensation for time, travel or expenses.

Nominations for any of the committees must include a current resume and AD-755 (Advisory Committee Membership Background Information), available on the internet at http://www.fas.usda.gov/admin/ad755.pdf. In addition, FAS encourages the submission of the optional form AD-1086 (Applicant for Advisory Committees Supplemental Sheet), available on the internet at www.fas.usda.gov/admin/ad1086.pdf.