2013 Tomato Suspension Agreement

The 2013 Tomato Suspension Agreement: What You Need to Know

The United States tomato industry has been a hot topic for trade negotiations and agreements over the years. One of the most significant of these is the 2013 Tomato Suspension Agreement, which has had a significant impact on the tomato industry in both the United States and Mexico.

What is the 2013 Tomato Suspension Agreement?

The 2013 Tomato Suspension Agreement is an agreement reached between the United States and Mexico regarding the importation of tomatoes. It replaced the previous agreement set in place in 2008 and was designed to address issues such as pricing and quality of imported tomatoes to ensure fair competition between the countries.

The agreement sets specific guidelines for the importation of tomatoes into the United States from Mexico, including pricing requirements and quality standards. Additionally, it put in place a mechanism for monitoring and enforcing the agreement to ensure compliance.

What impact has the agreement had on the tomato industry?

The agreement has had a significant impact on the tomato industry, particularly in Mexico. Prior to the agreement, there were concerns that Mexican tomatoes were being sold at prices that were unfairly low, making it difficult for American farmers to compete. The new agreement established a minimum price for Mexican tomatoes, which helped to level the playing field for American farmers.

Additionally, the agreement has led to increased collaboration between the United States and Mexico regarding the management of the tomato industry. This has resulted in improved communication and a shared commitment to fair competition and sustainable practices.

What does the future hold for the agreement?

The 2013 Tomato Suspension Agreement was initially set to expire in 2017, but was extended to 2019. However, in response to concerns raised by American tomato growers, the U.S. Department of Commerce initiated a review of the agreement in 2018. This review is ongoing, and it is unclear what changes, if any, will be made to the agreement as a result.

In conclusion, the 2013 Tomato Suspension Agreement has had a significant impact on the tomato industry in both the United States and Mexico. While concerns remain about the impact of Mexican tomatoes on American farmers, the agreement has helped to establish fair competition and improve collaboration between the two countries. As the agreement continues to be reviewed and evaluated, it will be interesting to see what changes are made and what the future holds for the tomato industry.