The Greg Ibach nomination for Under Secretary of Agriculture for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs arrived on September 29, 2026, alongside big news about his predecessor. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced from Washington, D.C. that Luke Lindberg, who currently holds the position, will become Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme. President Donald J. Trump nominated Ibach to fill the vacancy. Rollins said the change reflects the administration’s continued focus on expanding markets for American farmers and ranchers.
Luke Lindberg’s Move to the World Food Programme
Rollins credited Lindberg with major gains in agricultural trade during his time at USDA. According to Rollins, the Trump administration cut the agricultural trade deficit by 51% with his help. She also pointed to $177 billion in U.S. agricultural exports and 20 new trade agreements and frameworks secured during his tenure.
Additionally, Rollins said Lindberg helped lock in billions of dollars in new agricultural purchase commitments from countries around the world. She called him a tremendous friend and partner in the mission to deliver for farmers and ranchers. His new role at the World Food Programme will put that trade experience to work on a global stage focused on fighting hunger.
What Greg Ibach Brings to USDA’s Trade Office
The Greg Ibach nomination brings a familiar face back into a senior USDA role. Rollins described Ibach as a lifelong producer and proven leader who understands agriculture from the farm gate to the global marketplace. That firsthand experience, she said, makes him well suited to represent American growers in trade negotiations.
The Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs oversees USDA’s efforts to open new export markets and resolve trade barriers. Because so much of American agriculture depends on exports, the position carries significant weight for producers across the country. Ibach’s nomination still needs to move through the confirmation process before he can officially take over.
Why This USDA Trade Leadership Change Matters to Farmers
For farmers and ranchers, leadership at USDA’s trade office directly affects where their crops and livestock end up selling. A strong trade team can mean new buyers overseas, fewer tariffs, and better prices at home. Consequently, producers watch these appointments closely, even when the announcements come from Washington rather than the farm.
Rollins emphasized that strengthening agricultural trade remains a top priority for President Trump. She said the USDA team intends to build on the progress made so far, with American farmers staying at the center of that effort. The Greg Ibach nomination, if confirmed, would continue that push under new leadership.
What Comes Next
The transition sends Lindberg to a major international post while USDA works to fill his old seat. Meanwhile, the Greg Ibach nomination will head to the Senate for consideration in the coming weeks. Farmers and agribusiness professionals should watch for confirmation hearings and any early signals about Ibach’s trade priorities once he’s seated.
Readers interested in the full announcement can find more details through USDA’s official website. This story is based on a press release from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Communications.