IFPA and CPMA urge resolution to tariff disputes and warn “immediate and disproportionate harm” to supply chain

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) and the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), along with more than a dozen other North American produce organizations, are calling on the leaders of the United States, Mexico, and Canada to resolve ongoing tariff disputes that they say are disrupting the continent’s produce supply chain.

In a joint letter addressed to U.S. President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, the organizations emphasized the impact of tariffs on growers, exporters, retailers, and consumers, citing the high level of interdependence among the three countries’ produce sectors.

“The fresh produce supply chain is one of the most deeply integrated in the world, with cross-border trade between our nations ensuring year-round access to healthy fruits and vegetables,” said IFPA CEO Cathy Burns. “Tariffs on these vital goods disrupt that balance, driving up grocery costs, reducing availability, and placing significant strain on the businesses that grow, ship, and deliver our food.”

“The stability of the North American fresh produce market is paramount," added CPMA President Ron Lemaire. "We stand with our domestic and global colleagues in demanding that leaders prioritize a swift and collaborative resolution to safeguard the continental supply of fresh produce.”

According to a press release sent by the CPMA, Canada imported nearly $5.5 billion in fresh produce from the U.S. and $3 billion from Mexico in 2024. The U.S., in turn, imported over 24 billion pounds of fresh produce from Mexico, valued at $19.6 billion, and exported more than $1.7 billion into Mexico.

The associations acknowledged the right of each country to address unfair trade practices, but warned that tariffs on perishable products result in “immediate and disproportionate harm” to the produce supply chain. They are urging the three governments to pursue a long-term trade agreement to provide greater market stability.

“Our organizations remain committed to supporting fair and open trade,” said Burns and Lemaire. “We stand ready to work with all three governments to reach a solution that protects consumers, ensures food security, and strengthens the agricultural economies of North America.”

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