Open federal opportunities

Woven Polypropylene Bags for use in International Food Assistance Programs

AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OF.AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE.USDA AMS 3J14 · Response deadline: Mon, 02 Nov 2026

What the government is buying

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Marketing Service is seeking woven polypropylene bags for use in international food assistance programs. These are durable, woven plastic bags commonly used to package and transport bulk commodities like grains, flour, and other dry foodstuffs in humanitarian aid contexts. Woven polypropylene is valued for its strength, moisture resistance, and relatively low cost—critical properties when shipping food across long distances under varying climate conditions.

This procurement supports USDA's role in U.S. international food assistance, which is typically coordinated through programs like Food for Peace or other emergency and development food aid initiatives. The bags will likely need to meet specific standards for food contact safety, load capacity, and labeling for international shipment. The precise technical specifications—including dimensions, weight ratings, closure types, and any printing requirements—see the solicitation.

Key facts

Who can bid

This is a full and open competition with no small business set-aside, meaning businesses of any size may submit offers. The relevant NAICS code, 314910 (Textile Bag and Canvas Mills), suggests the government expects responses from manufacturers or distributors with established capabilities in woven plastic packaging.

Small businesses in this NAICS can still compete effectively, particularly if they:

• Manufacture woven polypropylene bags in-house or have reliable domestic supply partnerships
• Hold relevant quality certifications (FDA food-contact compliance, ISO standards)
• Can demonstrate experience with federal or institutional food packaging contracts

If your firm qualifies as small under the SBA size standard for NAICS 314910, you may still benefit from subcontracting opportunities or future set-aside procurements even if you don't win this particular open competition.

How to put together a competitive bid

Verify production capacity and compliance. Woven bags for international food aid often require specific treatments (UV stabilization, food-grade resin compliance, precise denier and weave specifications). Confirm your facility or supplier can meet any stated technical requirements and provide corresponding test reports or certifications.

Understand delivery expectations to Washington, DC. The place of performance suggests delivery to USDA or designated warehouse facilities in the DC area, or possibly management of overseas logistics. Clarify incoterms, inspection protocols, and acceptance criteria—see the solicitation.

Price strategically for open competition. Without a set-aside, you may compete against large domestic manufacturers and potentially international suppliers. Review the USDA's previous commodity procurement pricing patterns if available. Consider whether your firm can offer advantages in lead time, flexibility, or specialized bag features that justify competitive pricing.

Review contract terms carefully. USDA AMS commodity contracts often include strict quality assurance, inspection rights, and potential performance penalties. Ensure you understand payment terms and any required bonds or insurance.

Next steps

• Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number 12-1NFE-27-B-0003
• Note the firm response deadline: November 2, 2026 at 10:00 AM Central Time
• Prepare any required SAM registration, past performance documentation, and technical submittals well in advance of the deadline

View the official notice on SAM.gov →