Mexico establishes minimum fresh tomato export pricing
Mexico’s economics and agricultural ministries said in a joint statement on Sunday that it has established minimum export prices for fresh tomatoes in order to safeguard its domestic output and guarantee internal supplies following the expiration of a bilateral agreement with the United States.
Following Washington’s July departure from a 2019 agreement between the two nations that limited Mexican tomato exports to the United States, the decision was made.
On July 14, the Trump administration placed a roughly 17% tariff on fresh tomato imports from Mexico.
Although the new pricing regulations only apply to definite exports, they do not set maximum prices or limit export volumes. The Mexican ministries stated that prices will be revised once a year or earlier if market conditions warrant it.
Cherry and grape tomatoes must sell for at least $1.70 per kilogram, while Roma tomatoes must sell for $0.88, round tomatoes for $0.95, and round tomatoes with stems for $1.65. Other types, such heirloom and cocktail tomatoes, will likewise cost at least $1.70.
Last year, Mexico exported $3.3 billion worth of tomatoes, according to official estimates.
“This action reinforces the government’s commitment to agricultural competitiveness, dignified rural employment, and food sovereignty,” said the ministries.
The deal went into effect immediately after it was published in the government’s official gazette on August 8, according to the ministries, and has received backing from Mexican tomato farmers’ associations.
