The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) is a national trade association founded in 1883 that represents more than 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding, research, and distribution. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, ASTA advocates for the development, marketing, and free movement of quality seed and associated products to support agriculture, food security, and innovation in plant science.
ASTA advocates for science-based agricultural and biotechnology policies, plant breeding innovation, seed treatment and stewardship standards, domestic and international trade in seed, intellectual property protections, conservation and restoration initiatives, and federal and state legislation affecting farming, workforce, and global agricultural competitiveness.
Primarily funded through membership dues, conference revenue, and industry program fees from seed companies and related agribusinesses.
First the Seed Foundation; CropLife America; Canadian Seed Trade Association; Mexican Seed Trade Association; President and CEO Andrew W. LaVigne.
Non-profit trade association (501(c)(6) business league)