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U.S. Imposes 17% Tariff on Mexican Tomatoes, Prompting Relief for Farmers and Outcry from Mexico

The Commerce Department reinstated the levy after terminating the 2019 pact to protect U.S. tomato growers from low-cost imports

Crates of Roma tomatoes from Mexico are staged for shipment in the Divine Flavor warehouse in Nogales, Arizona. This is one of hundreds of specialized temperature controlled warehouses in southern Arizona that handle tomatoes from Mexico.
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Overview

  • The 17.09% tariff took effect July 14 when the Commerce Department withdrew from the 2019 suspension agreement to enforce anti-dumping rules.
  • Florida and California growers have reported a surge in business inquiries as domestic producers regain market share.
  • Importers and border-state distributors warn the levy will drive up grocery prices for all tomatoes because extra costs will be passed to consumers.
  • Republicans from Texas and Arizona estimate up to 50,000 jobs could be at risk in border communities dependent on tomato trade.
  • Mexico’s Economy and Agriculture ministries have lodged formal protests and are seeking to reopen bilateral negotiations with Washington.