Mexico has set minimum export prices for its fresh tomatoes to protect its domestic production and ensure internal supply after a bilateral agreement with the U.S. expired. Mexico’s economy and agriculture ministries made the announcement in a joint statement after Washington withdrew from a 2019 deal between the two countries, which regulated Mexican tomato exports to the U.S.
On July 14, the Trump administration announced a duty of about 17 percent on fresh tomato imports from Mexico. The new pricing rules apply exclusively to definitive exports, but they don’t restrict export volumes or impose maximum prices. The Mexican ministries said prices will be reviewed every year or sooner if market conditions suddenly demand it. “This action reinforces the government’s commitment to agricultural competitiveness, dignified rural employment, and food sovereignty,” the ministries said. Minimum export prices per kilogram include $1.70 for cherry and grape tomatoes and 88 cents for Roma tomatoes.
-NAFB