**Exports of U.S. dairy products to China have been hit hard by retaliatory tariffs, falling 43% since tariffs were imposed last summer, but as exports to China drop, sales in Southeast Asia are booming.

According to the U.S. Dairy Export Council, the amount of U.S. dairy products sold into Southeast Asia increased 12% in 2018 from the previous year.

According to milkbusiness.com, sales totals hit $771 million, making it the second largest export market for U.S. dairy behind Mexico.

**The USDA Farm Service Agency announced organic producers and handlers can apply for federal funds to assist with the cost of receiving and maintaining organic certification through the Organic Certification Cost Share Program.

The National Farmers Union reports, certified producers and handlers are eligible for reimbursement of up to 75-percent of certification costs each year, up to a maximum of $750 per certification scope.

Applications are open through October 31st.

National Farmers Union

**Bell peppers account for more than $1 billion in retail sales, making them an important piece of your produce mix.

Although more than half of consumers say they bought peppers in the past year, thepacker.com reports the vegetable tied with broccoli as the No. 3 item that shoppers were buying now that did not previously.

Shoppers age 18-to-39 were among the least likely to buy peppers. Consumers age 59+ were the most likely to buy the colorful vegetable overall.

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