USA: Mexican tomatoes targeted by 17% customs duties

The United States announced on Monday the implementation of customs duties 17% on tomatoes imported from Mexico. Therefore, after the cancellation of a free trade agreement between the two countries for this product.

Washington had announced in mid-April his desire to end the agreement. However. signed in 2019 during the first term usa: mexican tomatoes targeted 17% of Donald Trump, the announcement leading to a period of 90 days before the effective exit of the agreement, times which ended on Monday.

The US government had initially threatened Mexican tomatoes with a surcharge of 21%. before finally deciding to usa: mexican tomatoes targeted 17% new apply 17% customs tax on the fruit.

Mexico reaction

Mexico City immediately denounced an “unfair” surcharge which goes “against the interests of Mexican producers. but also of American industry”. according to a statement from the Mexican ministries of agriculture and the economy published on Monday.

“Since two out of three tomatoes consumed in the United States are harvested in Mexico, the measurement (…) will only affect the pockets of American consumers, since it will be impossible to replace Mexican tomatoes,” adds the document.

The American Ministry of Commerce accuses Mexican producers of anti -competitive practices. ensures that customs duties have been calculated in order to compensate for these practices.

“Mexico remains one of our main allies. but for usa: mexican tomatoes targeted 17% new too long our farmers have been crushed by unfair commercial practices which artificially lower the price (Editor’s note: production) On products such as tomato. “said the Minister of Commerce in a statement Howard Lutnick.

Before the announcement of these new customs rights. the Mexican president, Claudia Sheinbaum, had assured “working to reduce the effects” of this surcharge.

“It is very difficult to stop exporting tomatoes to the United States because their national production does not meet demand. ” she added.

90% Mexican tomatoes

In total. 90% of usa: mexican tomatoes targeted 17% tomatoes imported into the United States come from Mexico. recalled in April the Minister of Agriculture Julio Berdegué by anticipating concrete risks of prices on the other side of the Rio Bravo/Rio Grande.

The first trading partner in the United States. Mexico has been on the front of the commercial wars launched by Donald Trump since returned to the White. House in January.

AFP

Did you find an error? Please report it to us.

1 comment