Mexico Responds to U.S. Tariff Threat on Tomatoes

Is a trade war looming?

US to impose tariff on Mexican tomatoes

Mexico recalls dumping in U.S. chicken and pork

The Mexican government remains confident it can stop the United States from imposing a 20.91 percent tariff on its tomato exports.

According to Washington, this measure responds to alleged dumping practices by Mexican producers.

President Claudia Sheinbaum reacted firmly and reminded that there are also ongoing investigations into US products.

In particular, she mentioned the import of chicken and pork legs from the US into Mexico at prices considered excessively low.

Mexico Responds to the US with Dumping Claims on Chicken and Pork

#Important || Mexican tomatoes have no substitute: Sheinbaum; U.S. chicken and pork under scrutiny

Tariff on Mexican tomatoes for alleged dumping will hurt the U.S. https://t.co/qx7ba5sbv

— Diario Evolución (@EvolucionDiario) April 15, 2025

The conflict reemerged after the U.S. Department of Commerce announced its withdrawal from a 2019 agreement.

That agreement had suspended an anti-dumping investigation into fresh tomatoes from Mexico.

According to U.S. authorities, the agreement no longer adequately protects domestic producers.

Therefore, they warned that “most” Mexican tomatoes will be subject to a 20.91 percent tariff starting July 14.

Is a trade war approaching?

Mexico, however, insists that there is still room for dialogue and negotiation before the sanction takes effect, according to El Financiero.

According to the Department of Commerce, this decision aims to correct what it calls “unfair pricing” that harms U.S. farmers.

But Mexico points out a double standard, as its own producers face unfair competition from subsidized U.S. products.

It’s worth noting that Mexico is one of the world’s largest tomato exporters.

Tomato Tariff

In 2023, exports surpassed $2.5 billion, primarily from the state of Sinaloa, according to the AP.

For now, the outlook suggests a potential trade dispute in the agri-food sector.

Both governments will need to act swiftly, as the 90-day countdown has begun and the economic impact could be significant.

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