AMS (Agricultural Marketing Service)

What is AMS (Agricultural Marketing Service)?

The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is an agency within the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) responsible for facilitating the competitive and efficient marketing of agricultural products. While not solely focused on government contracting, AMS utilizes contracts to achieve its mission related to grading, standardization, market news, and other agricultural services.

Definition

The AMS plays a crucial role in supporting the agricultural industry by providing services that help ensure quality, transparency, and fair trade practices. It achieves this through various programs, some of which require contracted services from the private sector. AMS contracting covers areas such as developing and maintaining grade standards, collecting and disseminating market information, administering marketing agreements and orders, and providing food purchases for federal food and nutrition assistance programs. This means that contractors who provide services in these areas, such as data analysis, market research, quality control, or logistics, may find opportunities with AMS. The agency's activities are authorized under various laws related to agricultural marketing and trade, and its contracting practices follow the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).

Key Points

• Market Information: AMS collects and disseminates market information, including prices, volume, and quality data, requiring data collection and analysis services.
• Grading and Standardization: AMS establishes and maintains grade standards for agricultural products, which may involve contracting for inspection and testing services.
• Commodity Procurement: AMS procures commodities for federal food and nutrition assistance programs, creating opportunities for suppliers.
• Marketing Agreements and Orders: AMS administers marketing agreements and orders, which may involve contracting for program management and support services.

Practical Examples

1. Market Research Services: AMS might contract with a firm to conduct market research on consumer preferences for organic produce to inform grading standards or marketing strategies.
2. Inspection and Testing Services: AMS may contract with laboratories to perform tests on agricultural products to ensure they meet specific quality standards.
3. Logistics and Transportation: AMS could contract with transportation companies to move purchased commodities from farms to food banks or other distribution points for food assistance programs.