Mexico Slaps 20% Tariff On U.S. Apples

On Tuesday, Mexico announce a 20% tariff would be implemented immediately against U.S. apples.  The retaliatory tariff is in direct response to President Trump’s tariffs on aluminum and steel  from Mexico.

Todd Fryhover, President of the Washington Apple Commission said this will hurt local growers.  He said Mexico has become the #1 export market for U.S. apples; last year alone, Washington growers shipped 13.7 million 40 lb. bushel cartons to Mexico.

“It has taken essentially in some years up to 15% of our total production in the state of Washington.  With a value as high as $215 million.  So any type of increase to duty to Mexico will have a dramatic impact to Washington growers.”

Under WTO rules, countries hit with unilateral tariffs are allowed to levy tariffs equivalent to the amount of injury.  Apples are just one item on the list of U.S. products that Mexico is targeting.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com