FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
EXETER, Calif. — August 31, 2026 — California Citrus Mutual (CCM) applauds the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) for announcing plans to purchase $57.5 million in fresh citrus through the Section 32 procurement program.
The purchases include:
- $20 million in fresh oranges
- $12.5 million in fresh grapefruit
- $25 million in fresh mandarins
The Section 32 program allows USDA to purchase domestically produced agricultural commodities for distribution through food banks, schools, and other nutrition assistance programs. These purchases help reduce available inventory during periods of surplus, strengthen market conditions, and support returns for U.S. growers while providing fresh, nutritious citrus to families and communities across the country.
California Citrus Mutual has actively advocated for fresh citrus to remain a priority within USDA’s Section 32 purchasing program. As the nation’s leading producer of fresh citrus, California growers are expected to benefit significantly from the purchases.
“This is a substantial investment in the U.S. citrus industry and comes at an important time for our growers,” said Jacob Villagomez, CCM Director of Governmental Affairs. “CCM has continued to advocate for opportunities that strengthen the domestic market and support grower returns. We appreciate USDA and AMS recognizing the importance of fresh citrus and expanding these purchases to include a significant commitment to mandarins.”
CCM has continued working with USDA and federal leaders to communicate current market conditions and advocate for programs that provide meaningful support to California citrus growers.
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### About California Citrus Mutual (CCM) CCM is a voluntary, non-profit trade association representing California citrus growers on the economic, regulatory, and political issues that most impact them.
Media Contact: Abby Peltzer Communications Manager abby@cacitrusmutual.com |
