USDA Launches Enhanced Online PACA Training Course

Date
August 11, 2020

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) recently launched an enhanced PACA online training course for individuals and companies that buy and sell fruits and vegetables. The training is a useful tool for those who rely on AMS enforcement of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) to guarantee fair trading practices within the U.S. produce industry.

The free “PACA Basics Online Training” is available through the PACA website at the Education & Training link.  The course provides the information that produce businesses need to operate in accordance with the PACA. Training consists of 12 units that include understanding a firm’s rights and responsibilities in produce transactions, trade terms, payment requirements, interpretation of Federal inspection certificates and more.  Participants receive a certificate following course completion.

This new training is part of a continuing effort to ensure customers receive efficient, effective service and access to information when they need it.

The PACA Division regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses, including buyers, sellers, commission merchants, dealers and brokers within the fruit and vegetable industry.

For more information, call PACA at 800-495-7222. PACA’s online services also are available 24/7 through the ePACA portal.

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