Mexico, US Seek Agreement in Tomato Trade Dispute

Authorities from Mexico and the United States recently met to seek an agreement regarding tomato trade amid tensions that could lead to the implementation of new tariffs. Business leaders from both countries acknowledged the importance of Mexican tomatoes and warned that, if the proposed tariffs are enacted, the entire production and supply chain would be affected.

Julio Berdegué, Mexico’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER), reported that following a meeting with Brooke Rollins, his US counterpart, important agreements were reached concerning tomato trade between the two countries. Although he did not go into detail, Berdegué stated that both sides would work to strengthen mechanisms for dialogue and consultation on issues of mutual concern. “It was an extremely cordial and productive meeting, during which we analyzed all substantive aspects of our bilateral relationship,” he wrote on his X account.

During his visit to Washington, Berdegué also met with 27 representatives from companies and associations involved in distributing Mexican tomatoes in the United States. The minister noted that these representatives, who participate in the importation, transportation, processing, and distribution of tomatoes, emphasized the impact that the proposed tariffs could have. They warned that the tariffs would raise prices for US consumers and jeopardize approximately 50,000 jobs in the value chain, as well as affect numerous companies involved in the sector.

In mid-April, the US Department of Commerce (DoC) announced its intention to withdraw from the 2019 Agreement Suspending the Antidumping Investigation on Fresh Tomatoes From Mexico. The termination of this agreement, set to take effect on July 14, 2025, would result in a 20.91% duty on imports of Mexican tomatoes.

The Agricultural Markets Consulting Group (GCMA) warned that tomato prices in the US could increase by as much as 50% due to the new tariff. Meanwhile, Mexico’s National Agricultural Council (CNA) pointed out that the tariff would immediately raise the price of essential food products such as salads, sauces, and ketchup by 11.5% for US consumers.

Berdegué stressed that importers recognized there is no substitute for Mexican tomatoes, not only because of the volume supplied but also because of their quality. He also took the opportunity to meet with Mexican tomato producers, who are working to make their case in hopes of reaching an agreement to prevent the tariff proposed by the Trump administration.