The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Quarantine and Inspection (AQI) User Fee program will be making a rate adjustment on October 1st, with subsequent increases occurring each year through fiscal year 2028.
The AQI program was put in place to protect U.S. agriculture and natural resources from invasive plant pests and animal diseases when trading agricultural commodities.
CTA advises any carriers with cross-border operations to review a breakdown of the adjusted rates for 2026, and beyond which can be found on the USDA website: Agricultural Quarantine and Inspection (AQI) User Fees Explained: A Small Entity Compliance Guide.
