NOGALES, AZ - Southeast produce growers recently insisted the U.S. invoke rarely-used Section 301 National Security protections against Mexican imported produce. The topic on the table is the potential of increased grocery costs for Americans and the instigation trade challenges with Mexico just weeks after the historic USMCA took effect, according to the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA).

“The claims from the Southeast lack context and are simply untrue,” said FPAA President Lance Jungmeyer, citing a recent University of Arizona analysis. “Research shows that since 1995, the U.S. has used up to 41 percent of its allowable subsidies, while Mexico has averaged just 2 percent.”

Consumers would pay more for strawberries, blueberries, bell peppers, tomatoes, sweet corn, and watermelon if tariffs or quotas are put on these items through a 301 trade action.

FPAA issued a press release which outlines claims such as unfair subsidies, U.S.-Mexico business conflicts, necessary trade law changes, and unequal labor opportunities. You can read more on the discussion by reading the press release here.

As the industry continues to evaluate trade policies such as this, we at ANUK will be here to keep you informed as decisions shake out on both sides of the line.

Fresh Produce Association of the Americas