USMCA the New Reality

USMCA took effect on July 1. The treaty is expected to boost the Mexican agricultural sector. However, it may also lead to punitive anti-dumping measures. See more on that concern here.

The Mexican government, meanwhile, has released its own plan for the agricultural sector for 2020-2024. The objectives align clearly with the president’s current agenda.

Want to know more? Here are the week’s biggest headlines!

Government News

The federal government has published its Sectorial Program for Agriculture and Rural Development 2020-2024. The document establishes the guidelines for strengthening activities in the field. Notably, its sets food self-sufficiency and well-being of producers as the top objectives, in line with the president’s agenda.

International organizations have recognized Mexico as an authority and reference in sanitary measures in food production and exports, demonstrating the successful efforts of SENASICA.

Export News

Grape exports from Sonora to South Korea have commenced. There are 10 packing agencies and 19 production units that are authorized by the South Korean government to export their produce.

The National Council of Feed and Animal Nutrition Manufacturers (CONAFAB) reported that there are currently 18 plants awaiting authorization to export pork offal; six of them already exporting meat to China. This comes amid news of more outbreaks of African Swine Fever in China, hurting the local Chinese pork industry.

COVID-19-related news

Due to closed markets and low product demand, tons of fruit in the Huejotzingo and Itza-Popo regions remain unharvested. Locals are asking for financial support from the government to compensate the losses.

Company Developments

The Mexican online grocery store chain Jüsto has managed to raise another US$12 million to expand its business, TechCrunch reports. COVID-19 has boosted online buying and home-delivery behavior among consumers in Mexico. To see our interview with Jüsto founder Ricardo Weder, click here.

The US Supreme Court will decide whether American corporations can be sued for alleged human rights abuses occurring abroad under a 1789 law, Reuters reports. The court has agreed to hear appeals by two companies accused of ‘helping perpetuate slavery at Ivory Coast cocoa farms’, Cargill Inc and Nestlé.