Leaders in Florida’s farming sector are celebrating the move as a long-overdue defense against decades of “unfairly priced” Mexican imports, claiming U.S. growers lost 70 % market share to imports since the 1990s.
At a Glance
- A 21 % tariff on Mexican fresh tomatoes begins July 14, after withdrawal from the 2019 agreement.
- The tariff is expected to drive up U.S. tomato prices by roughly 7 %, or about 8 cents per pound at retail.
- Florida growers have sent over 100 complaints of Mexican “dumping” under the now-defunct agreement.
- Arizona and Texas lawmakers warn the tariff will harm grocers, restaurants, and consumers in their states.
- Previously, imports from Mexico comprised nearly 70 % of U.S. fresh tomato supply, up from 30 % in the 1990s.
Clash of Interests
Florida tomato producers hailed the move, with the Florida Tomato Exchange saying it restores much-needed market fairness. Florida now accounts for nearly $494 million in fresh tomato production, second only to California, according to the same Arizona Mirror report.
At the same time, Arizona, Texas, and importers like NatureSweet are sounding alarms. They argue the tariff cuts off consumer choice, hits restaurant supply chains, and may cost up to 50,000 jobs, especially in border states, according to the American Action Forum. Previously, nearly 90% of U.S. tomato imports came from Mexico, making the tariff a national pricing issue, as outlined by the Washington Post.
Watch a report: US Farmers Call Out Unfairly Priced Tomatoes as Tariff Set to Take Effect.
Bigger Trade Picture
The tariff also reopens a broader trade confrontation. Mexican diplomats are pushing to renegotiate terms to avert retaliatory tariffs, signaling that the trade rift is far from over.
Economists predict U.S. consumers could see tomato prices increase by 7–10 %, and in some areas, even up to 50%, according to models reviewed by the American Action Forum. Restaurant industry analysts warn that higher input costs could escalate menu prices and further compound inflation already squeezing family budgets, as reported by Pizza Today.
The Florida vs. Arizona-Texas split reveals deeper geographic and economic tensions—producers demand protection, while grocers, restaurants, and families brace for the cost.