U.S. to impose 21% tariff on Mexican tomatoes starting July 2025

Fresh tomatoes, a staple in American kitchens, may soon get more expensive as new tariffs threaten imports from Mexico. The U.S. government has announced plans to withdraw from a long-standing agreement that kept prices stable, and will begin imposing a 21% duty on Mexican tomatoes starting July 2025. This move is meant to support U.S. tomato farmers, especially in Florida, but it could also hurt importers, retailers, and consumers.

For years, imported tomatoes have helped Americans enjoy fresh produce year-round, since domestic supply alone can’t meet demand. In 2023, the U.S. imported twice as many tomatoes as it produced, with $3.1 billion worth coming from Mexico alone. These imports don’t just fill grocery shelves — they support an $8 billion economic impact and around 47,000 jobs across storage, shipping, and sales.

The debate started decades ago, when U.S. growers claimed that Mexican tomatoes were being sold at unfairly low prices. Since then, the two countries have signed several deals to avoid full-on trade disputes. While U.S. farmers might benefit from higher prices, consumers could lose access to affordable fresh tomatoes, especially in winter.

If the new tariff goes through, experts say Americans will likely face higher prices and fewer tomato choices in stores, potentially shrinking the economic gains that imports have provided.

source: theconversation.com

photo: organicproducenetwork.com