Produce giants unite under the Produce Coalition for USMCA 

Global industry leaders, including Driscoll’s, Mission Produce, NatureSweet, and Taylor Farms, have gathered to create the Produce Coalition for USMCA. The group includes various actors of the fresh produce supply chain, such as growers, distributors, packers, and shippers. 

In a press release, the newly formed organization said it will strive to protect continued consumer access to affordable fresh produce and tariff-free trade of all agricultural products under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). 

“The Produce Coalition for USMCA is committed to highlighting the critical role of the [agreement] in maintaining food security and affordable grocery prices for consumers,” read the organization’s first statement. “We support an integrated North American produce supply chain that ensures a reliable, year-round supply of healthy, affordable, fresh fruits and vegetables for American consumers.” 

USMCA’s role in the affordability crisis

The group was adamant that by fostering seamless cross-border trade and collaboration, the commercial agreement among the North American countries helps keep grocery shelves stocked and supports agricultural jobs. 

As the agreement approaches its first required review, the coalition said it will work to highlight the agreement’s importance in ensuring the industry can provide a year-round, affordable supply of perishable goods to all 50 states. 

The coalition cites a recent Purdue University study claiming that tariff reductions under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the USMCA lowered food prices enough to save the average household roughly $700 per year on groceries. 

“These findings clearly show the importance of maintaining the current market access under [the agreement],” the organization said. “In addition to making fresh produce more affordable for Americans, the robust structure of the agreement also is essential for advancing science-based decision-making and addressing any trade disputes before they become trade barriers, all of which contribute to US food security.” 

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