USDA FAS
United States Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service | USDA FSA
UNITED STATES & CHINA SCIENTIFIC COOPERATION EXCHANGE PROGRAM (SCEP)
The Scientific Cooperation Exchange Program was established in 1978 under a cooperative agreement between the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and China’s Ministry of Agriculture (MOA). The Program allows USDA and MOA to exchange approximately 16 scientific teams each year—8 from each country – for up to 13 nights and 14 days. Participants pay their international airfare and the host country pays for in-country meals, lodging, transportation, cultural activities, and other miscellaneous expenses. Teams may consist of six (6) to eight (8) members, which must include an interpreter. USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service implements SCEP and facilitates training for Chinese officials working in agricultural trade and policy; agribusiness development; animal, plant, and food sciences; and extension services. Training programs are designed and organized in conjunction with U.S. universities, USDA and other government agencies, agribusinesses, and consultants. The program’s primary objectives are to promote encourage long-term cooperation, create a positive atmosphere for trade, and enhance overall relationships between the U.S. and the People’s Republic of China.