Japanese Marketing and Trade Representative

The Florida Department of Citrus is seeking proposals for a Japanese Marketing and Trade Representative to manage trade representation and promotional programs for Florida Grapefruit in Japan. The Request for Proposal (RFP #25-01) requires vendors with expertise in market research, marketing, public relations, advertising, and trade representation targeting consumers, media, and trade channels including importers, wholesalers, retailers, food manufacturers, and foodservice operators. Proposals were due February 19, 2026, at 1:00 PM EST, with an anticipated contract award date of July 1, 2026. The selected vendor will operate under a two-year initial contract with one potential three-year renewal option. Evaluation criteria include a 100-point scoring system assessing marketing and PR experience (15 points), trade experience (15 points), strategic approach (15 points), agricultural and food industry experience (10 points), geographic coverage capability (10 points), measurement and reporting (10 points), USDA-FAS funding program experience (10 points), cost-value proposition (10 points), and financial control assessment (5 points).

The contract requires compliance with Florida state procurement laws and USDA-FAS Market Access Program regulations, with a total annual budget of approximately $800,000 for Florida Grapefruit marketing in fiscal year 2026-27. Vendors must propose a monthly retainer fee covering staff time, in-country travel, and administrative expenses, with a separate line-item budget for program expenses and third-party vendor payments. Bidders must complete multiple mandatory attachments, including a Public Entity Crimes Statement, Vendor Certification Form, Use of Coercion Form, and Financial Control/Risk Assessment. The contract includes a 1% MyFloridaMarketPlace transaction fee, and payments will be made after services are rendered and invoices are submitted with proof of performance, subject to a 40-day billing cycle. Prospective vendors must demonstrate financial stability, provide client references, and show no conflicts of interest with the Florida Citrus industry or Florida Grapefruit promotion.