U.S. imposes 17% tariff on fresh tomatoes from Mexico

The United States has officially withdrawn from its longstanding tomato trade agreement with Mexico, reimposing a 17.09% anti-dumping tariff on fresh tomato imports from its southern neighbor.

The move, announced July 14 by the Department of Commerce, ends a 2019 pact that had suspended duties in exchange for price controls and compliance measures.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the decision aims to protect U.S. growers, particularly in Florida and the Southeast, from pricing practices he described as harmful and unfair.

“Mexico remains one of our greatest allies, but for far too long our farmers have been crushed by unfair trade practices that undercut pricing on produce like tomatoes. That ends today,” said Lutnick. “This rule change is in line with President Trump’s trade policies and approach with Mexico.”

The Mexican government has condemned the move, calling it politically motivated and economically damaging. Officials from Mexico’s economy and agriculture ministries stated that their proposals to address pricing concerns were rejected, and they are now working to support affected producers while exploring alternative markets.

Mexican tomatoes make up about two-thirds of the U.S. market, representing nearly $3 billion in annual exports. Growers in regions like Sinaloa and Baja California warn that no other country can match Mexico’s volume and consistency, raising concerns about supply shortages.

Consumer advocates say the decision will likely lead to higher prices for fresh tomatoes and tomato-based products.